The 22nd National Sports Festival continues to build excitement as Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, unveiled the mascot, logo, and theme song for the highly anticipated National Sports Festival 2024 at a colourful ceremony held at the June 12 Cultural Centre in Abeokuta.
Governor Abiodun, represented by his Deputy, Engr. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, declared that the festival is not just Ogun’s event but a celebration for the entire country. He emphasized the state’s readiness and urged all stakeholders to support the Local Organising Committee (LOC) in delivering an unforgettable celebration of unity and sporting excellence.
“Today marks another milestone in our journey towards delivering what we promise will be the most memorable, most inclusive, and most inspiring National Sports Festival Nigeria has ever seen,” Abiodun stated.
Reflecting on Ogun’s last hosting in 2006, the governor noted that the 2024 edition would “raise the bar significantly,” with fresh innovations and symbolic elements like the theme song and mascot capturing the energy, culture, and aspirations of Ogun people.
“The theme song — rich in rhythm and spirit — was composed by the talented Dr. Bayo Adepetun, while the Mascot was brought to life by a brilliant team from our Ministry of Culture,” he explained.
Significant investments have been made in upgrading and constructing new sports facilities, which Abiodun described as a “lasting legacy” for Ogun and Nigerian sports at large.
“Ogun 2024 is not just Ogun State’s festival — it is Nigeria’s festival,” he said. “We are ready to host, but we need all hands on deck to make this a truly unforgettable celebration of talent, unity, and national pride.”
NSC Director-General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, also commended Ogun’s preparedness, assuring Nigerians of a festival that will match the standards of the Olympics — the first of its kind with full federal government backing.
“This is the first time the federal government is pulling its weight behind the host state to have a successful event,” Olopade remarked.
Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, applauded the LOC’s commitment and revealed that the facilities being prepared will serve beyond 2024, further enhancing Ogun’s positioning in Nigeria’s sports landscape.
From May 16 to May 30, Ogun will become the heartbeat of Nigerian sports, welcoming athletes, fans, and stakeholders for what promises to be a premium sporting celebration.
