Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has assured participants, spectators, and residents of the state of robust security arrangements ahead of the 2025 National Sports Festival (NSF), scheduled to hold from 16th to 30th November.
Speaking during an interactive session with journalists at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun affirmed that comprehensive security measures had been put in place to safeguard lives and property throughout the duration of the games, tagged Gateway Games.
Originally slated for 2024, the event was postponed to allow for improved preparations.
“In addition to the extensive security arrangements, this administration has provided shuttle buses to ensure timely transportation of athletes to the various sporting venues,” the governor said.
He added that the state had upgraded its sports infrastructure at several locations, aiming to host what he described as the most impressive edition in the history of the NSF.
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This year’s edition will be the first in which over 10,000 athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory are expected to participate, with the governor noting that the state had made arrangements for top-class accommodation for all contingents. He also announced the appointment of former international footballer, Segun Odegbami, as the state’s Grand Sports Ambassador.
On the festival’s economic impact, Abiodun stated that the event would serve as a springboard for building a sustainable sports economy in Ogun State.
“The business community in Ogun will witness a significant boost, with hotels fully booked and small-scale traders experiencing increased patronage,” he said.
The 22nd edition of the biennial multi-sports event will bring together thousands of athletes from across Nigeria to promote sportsmanship, unity, and excellence. Ogun State will field over 800 athletes in various competitions at designated venues in Abeokuta and other locations within the state.
