Participants at the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, have praised the robust security arrangements implemented across various venues in Ogun State.

From the bustling MKO Abiola Sports Arena to the vibrant Alake Sports Centre, security personnel were strategically stationed to safeguard both participants and property.

The seamless collaboration between the Nigerian Police and other security agencies was evident, contributing to a safe and orderly environment throughout the festival.

An official from a Northern state expressed satisfaction with the arrangements:

“I must commend Ogun State for the security setup. There hasn’t been a single reported case of theft at any of the venues. Teams are even escorted by security personnel late at night after events. For many of us coming from the North, this level of organization is impressive. It’s the kind of standard we should expect at every National Sports Festival.”

An athlete, who preferred to remain anonymous, also shared her positive experience:

“I’m genuinely impressed by how approachable and helpful the security personnel have been. They treat us with respect, regardless of where we’re from. It made me wonder if they received special training for this event. The peaceful atmosphere in Ogun is another big plus, you can move around freely without fear or harassment. I truly hope this sets a benchmark for Enugu, the next host state.”

The commendations reflect the organizers’ commitment to ensuring a secure and welcoming environment, reinforcing Ogun State’s reputation as a capable and hospitable host.

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Food vendors and other small business owners are enjoying a significant economic boost from the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged the Gateway Games 2024, which has firmly placed Ogun State on the global sporting map.

Commercial activities have taken over nearly every available space from the bustling MKO Abiola Sports Complex to the Alake Sports Centre and the Babcock University Hostel. The vibrant business environment underscores the economic benefits of hosting a major sporting event like the National Sports Festival.

Economic boom for citizens as Gateway Games provides an avenue for brisk business.

For the Ogun State government, the festival has already proven financially rewarding, with vendors contributing several millions of naira in fees to the state’s coffers.

One food vendor, popularly known as Mama Ibeji, shared her experience:

“In the last four days, business has been booming, especially since Wednesday, when most of the state contingents arrived in Abeokuta. Initially, when we started operations on Sunday, May 18, there were few customers. But by Tuesday, things picked up significantly. We hope events like this continue to come to Ogun State so we can keep supporting our families.”

However, not all vendors have seen immediate success. A jewellery seller from Lagos expressed concern over slow sales but remained optimistic:

“I’ve participated in the last three National Sports Festivals—in Abuja, Rivers, and Edo—and Ogun is no different. Business usually starts slow, but it picks up toward the end when athletes receive their allowances. I’m confident we won’t leave Ogun State without making a profit.”

As the festival progresses, vendors are hopeful that the influx of athletes, officials, and spectators will continue to drive sales. This trend reinforces the broader economic impact of sports tourism in the region.

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The old order has been restored as the Games of the 22nd National Sports Festival conclude their first week of competition. Delta State has regained the top position, pushing down the initial leaders, Bayelsa State.

As at the close of competition on Friday, Delta State have amassed 34 gold, 12 silver and 28 bronze medals to take their haul to 74. Bayelsa State have a total of 61 medals comprising 32 gold, 14 silver and 15 bronze medals.  

Delta’s resurgence came from the swimming events as they fished out medal after medal. Delta State also dominated the taekwondo events, which have been concluded. A haul of five gold, two silver and four bronze medals propelled Delta to the summit of the table.

Rivers State is third with 15 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals, giving the South South states an almost complete dominance of the festival.

The topmost state outside the South South is Ogun State, which hosts. They are fourth with a total of 42 medals, comprising 11 gold, 14 silver and 17 bronze medals.

The competition continues Saturday as badminton comes to an end and table tennis takes the centre stage at the Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta. Meanwhile, the athletics events enter the second day.

Follow the live medals table here.

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