The arrival of the torch of unity in Abeokuta, Ogun State capital on Thursday evening signaled the commencement of the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2025.

The torch was received at a brief ceremony at the city gate by the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun. The state’s executive council members as well as members of the state’s assembly and some traditional rulers were on hand at the ceremony.

Governor Abiodun promised that Sunday’s opening ceremony at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex would be ‘spectacular.’ He assured that the state would exceed expectations with an extraordinary show on Sunday.

“We are going to have a colourful and spectacular opening ceremony, unlike anything seen before in the history of the National Sports Festival. Beyond the opening ceremony, we want attendees to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the games, which is why we are ensuring all our tourist centres are in top shape before the festival begins,” he said.

For visiting athletes and officials, Governor Abiodun said that efforts are in full swing to prepare all tourist centres scattered across the state.

“We want our visitors to look forward to returning to Ogun State, which is why we have temporarily closed all our tourist centres, including the popular Olumo Rock, to ensure they are in excellent condition for our guests to enjoy during the games. We want all our visitors to feel at home and enjoy the beautiful atmosphere set for the festival,” Abiodun added.

Apart from the Olumo Rock, a prominent landmark in Abeokuta, visitors will have the privilege of visiting the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) and various sports venues within the state.

While the Olumo Rock offers historical and cultural significance, along with stunning views, the OOPL, dedicated to former President Olusegun Obasanjo, provides insights into his life and presidency. The library also features a park for wildlife viewing and conservation efforts.

Cities like Abeokuta, Ijebu-Ode, Sagamu, Ota, Ibafo, Agbara, and other towns offer a glimpse into the state’s rich culture and way of life.

The rush for medals will begin even before Sunday’s opening ceremony. Badminton, Kungfu, weightlifting are some of the events that will produce early medals in the 22nd National Sports Festival. While Badminton and events like gymnastics, handball, squash, para-table tennis and volleyball hold at the Alake Sports Centre, Abeokuta, Kungfu, karate and wrestling will hold at the Civic Center, Obafemi Awolowo Square, Ikenne. Dambe, para-powerlifting and weightlifting will hold at the NYSC Orientation Camp, Sagamu. The Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne is venue for Ayo, basketball (female) chess, football, scrabble and wheelchair basketball. Babcock university will host Dart (table tennis, football, judo and taekwondo.
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