…commends Gov Abiodun for hosting ‘most outstanding NSF’

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The National Chairman of the Articulated Motorcycle Owners and Riders Association of Nigeria (AMORAN), Taofeek Sokoya has commended Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun for hosting what he described as “the most outstanding National Sports Festival” in Nigeria’s history.

Sokoya, who gave the commendation at association’s general meeting in Abeokuta, said hosting of the National Sports Festival has contributed immensely to the economic status of the state.

He added that the festival’s ability to attract national and international sports administrators reflects the significant investment by Abiodun’s administration in sports development, facilities, and equipment, stressing that the governor has set an unprecedented standard in the organization of sports competition in the country.

He expressed confidence that “with the high-level standard of organisation of the Gateway Games 2024, the 22nd edition of the NSF will go down in history as the best-organized sports festival in Nigeria.”

While describing the sports festival as a testament to the state’s commitment to sports development, he stressed that the state government has invested heavily in sports infrastructure and programmes, promoting a healthy lifestyle among its residents.

According to Sokoya, “hosting a National Sports Festival requires significant investment on infrastructure, including sports facilities, transportation, and accommodation. The state government has invested heavily in upgrading its infrastructure, which is expected to attract tourists and businesses to the state. This investment will not only benefit the state’s economically, but also enhance the quality of life of its residents.

“Through the hosting of the National Sports Festival, the state economy has been improved tremendously. As visitors, including athletes, officials, and spectators, are currently in the state, hoteliers, food vendors as well as transportation service providers are smiling to their banks”.

“Apart from the economic benefits, the National Sports Festival also promoted unity and national integration among Nigerians, as athletes from all the state of the federation and FCT converge in the state fighting for honours”, Sokoya said.

He noted that the governor has turned visions into reality, fulfilling promises to use sports for youth empowerment and economic growth.

He remarked, “From the colourful opening ceremony of the Gateway 2024 on Sunday to world-class facilities on display, Governor Abiodun has put Nigeria on the global map of sports.”

Sokoya also commended Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, State Commissioner for Sports, Wasiu Isiaka, and National Sports Commission Director General, Bukola Olopade, who chairs the Local Organising Committee, for their tireless efforts in ensuring that the hosts an exceptional festival.