Ogun State is set to host the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games Ogun 2025,” from May 16 to May 30, 2025. The event will be held in the state capital, Abeokuta, with the MKO Abiola Stadium serving as the central venue for both the opening and closing ceremonies. This biennial multi sport festival, often referred to as Nigeria’s own Olympics, will bring together over 15,000 athletes competing in various events across more than 30 sporting disciplines.
In preparation for this national event, Ogun State has been upgrading its sports infrastructure to meet global standards. According to the Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, the state is already 90% ready to host. Renovations and new developments have been put in place to ensure a smooth and exciting experience for both athletes and spectators. The symbolic Torch of Unity, which represents peace and national solidarity, has completed its nationwide tour and is expected to arrive in Ogun on May 15, signaling the final countdown to the games.
Ogun is not only hosting but also fielding a strong team of 742 athletes across various sports. These athletes have been in training camps with a clear mandate: to compete and win. Governor Dapo Abiodun has reiterated his administration’s commitment to excellence, assuring Nigerians that the 2025 Games will raise the bar for subsequent editions of the festival.
The National Sports Festival, first held in 1973, was created to foster unity, promote talent discovery, and encourage nationwide sporting excellence. As Ogun prepares to host the event for the second time since 2006, the excitement is palpable. The entire country looks forward to a celebration of unity, talent, and sportsmanship that will leave a lasting legacy in Nigeria’s sporting history.
