The opening ceremony of the Gateway Games 2025 in Ogun State was held yesterday with a host of dignitaries and national leaders in attendance.
The event is being graced by the presence of Vice President Kashim Shettima, who is representing President Bola Tinubu.
Also in attendance are Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Former Governor Olusegun Osoba, both iconic sons of Ogun State. Other notable figures present include Minister of Finance Wale Edun, members of the Senate and House of Representatives from Ogun State, royal fathers, and sports icons.
Abiodun said the Gateway Games 2024 aims to promote unity, excellence, and national pride through sports, and the high-level attendance underscores the importance of the event.
Governor Abiodun reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building a future where talent is nurtured and hard work is rewarded.
In his words: “The opening ceremony of the Gateway Games 2024 is currently underway, and we are honoured to be joined by an exceptional lineup of dignitaries and national leaders who have come to celebrate this defining moment for sports and youth development in Ogun State.
“We warmly welcome His Excellency, the Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Kashim Shettima, GCON, whose presence underscores the importance of unity, excellence, and national pride through sports.
“He is here on behalf of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, to officially declare the event open.
“Also in attendance are some of my esteemed colleagues: Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State, H.E. Senator Ademola Adeleke of Osun State, Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, and Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State; as well as the Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme of Delta State and his counterpart from Akwa Ibom, Senator Akon Eyakenyi.
“We are also pleased to welcome the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun, whose presence reflects the Federal Government’s shared commitment to youth empowerment and economic development through sports.
“We are especially proud to welcome Former President Olusegun Obasanjo and Former Governor Aremo Olusegun Osoba, two iconic sons of Ogun State whose legacies continue to inspire generations.
“Members of the Senate and House of Representatives from Ogun State, top government officials, royal fathers, sports icons, and other respected stakeholders are also present to witness this grand occasion.
“Today, we reaffirm our commitment to building a future where talent is nurtured, hard work is rewarded, and Ogun State remains a beacon of excellence,” he added.
