Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has conducted the inauguration of a 16-member Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the 22nd National Sports Festival, scheduled to be hosted by the state in 2024.
During the inauguration at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun expressed the state’s determination to surpass previous editions of the festival and achieve even greater success than in 2006, when the state last hosted the event.
He emphasised his government’s commitment to developing world-class sporting infrastructure throughout the state.
The governor highlighted that “the festival is not solely about competition and performances but also an opportunity for Ogun State to showcase its talent, culture, potential, and hospitable nature to the world.”
Governor Abiodun recognised the significance of the national sports festival in harnessing the energy and creativity of the country’s youth and providing a platform for them to display their diverse talents and potential.
He asserted that “hosting the event reflects his administration’s dedication to empowering the next generation and promoting their growth and self-development.”
Addressing the members of the committee, Governor Abiodun urged them to approach their responsibilities with a strong sense of purpose, emphasising that meticulous attention to detail, effective planning, and seamless execution would be crucial in hosting a remarkable edition of the festival.
In response, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Bukola Olopade, praised Governor Abiodun for successfully securing the rights to host the National Sports Festival.
He acknowledged the governor’s groundbreaking decision to provide cash rewards to all Ogun State athletes who participated in the previous festival, regardless of whether they won medals or not.
This unprecedented gesture demonstrated the governor’s commitment to supporting and encouraging athletes in the state.
Olopade further lauded the Governor for assembling a group of outstanding sports experts and enthusiasts to form the LOC, stating that their collective expertise positions them as the best minds in Nigerian sports today.
