Paul Akomolehin, South West
DAILY COURIER - As preparations intensify for the 2024 National Sports Festival, Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has reaffirmed the state’s readiness to host what is being described as the most outstanding edition in the history of the event.
During an inspection of key facilities at the M.K.O Abiola Stadium in Kuto and the Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun expressed satisfaction with the progress of work, noting that major infrastructures were nearing completion.
“Ogun State is fully prepared to host the best National Sports Festival yet,” the governor said. “Our facilities are state-of-the-art, and our investment in sports is already bearing fruit.”
In a major endorsement of its growing sports profile, Ogun State has been selected to host the 2026 Africa Under-20 Athletics Championships—an accolade Governor Abiodun attributed to the government’s commitment to long-term sports development.
“This recognition is not just a win for Ogun State but a win for Nigeria. It affirms that we are on the right path,” he stated.
To safeguard the integrity of the M.K.O Abiola Stadium for future sports use, Governor Abiodun announced the construction of a separate pavilion dedicated to non-sporting events. This initiative, he said, would help preserve the stadium’s core identity and ensure it remains a top-tier sporting facility.
“We will soon rename the facility the M.K.O Abiola Sporting Complex, to reflect our commitment to excellence in sports infrastructure,” he added.
Beyond sports, the 2024 National Sports Festival is poised to be a catalyst for tourism and economic growth. According to Governor Abiodun, the state expects to receive over 15,000 visitors, with local businesses and hospitality establishments already preparing for the anticipated boom.
“This festival is not just about competition. It is a platform to showcase Ogun State’s tourism potential and to stimulate the local economy. Our artisans, vendors, hotels, and transport operators will all benefit,” he explained.
The governor also emphasized the role of the event in talent identification and development, describing it as a springboard for athletes who may go on to represent Nigeria at global competitions.
Governor Abiodun concluded by asserting that Ogun State was setting a new benchmark for sports infrastructure and event management in Nigeria. He pledged that his administration would continue to prioritize projects and policies that position the state as a hub for sports, tourism, and economic activities.
“With these developments, Ogun State is not only hosting a sports festival—we are rewriting the playbook on how sports and economic policy can align for maximum impact,” the governor said.
