By GOC Nwadike, Owerri
The Imo State contingent to the 2024 National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, has departed Owerri for Abeokuta, Ogun State, where the festival officially kicks off Sunday at the MKO Abiola Stadium.
No fewer than 600 athletes and officials from Imo State are participating in the multi-sport event, which features over 30 disciplines, including Paralympic sports. The festival, initially scheduled for 2024, is holding in 2025 after a rescheduling, marking its return to Ogun State since 2006.
Vice President Kashim Shettima is expected to declare the festival open in a grand ceremony that will showcase Nigeria’s cultural richness and athletic prowess. The National Sports Festival, since its inception in 1973, remains a key symbol of national unity and sports development.
Before their departure on Saturday, Imo State Governor, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma, reiterated his commitment to the state’s participation while receiving the symbolic Torch of Unity on Monday, April 28, 2025, at the Imo Government
Governor Uzodimma, in a show of support, approved the trip for the athletes and charged them to compete with determination and bring back medals to the state.
“Go out there with courage and commitment,” the governor urged. “Bring home medals that will reflect the excellence and resilience that define Imo State under our 3Rs administration.”
Also addressing the contingent at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, before their departure, Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, fired up the athletes with a humorous yet motivating challenge.
“I hope you know what it means to get a handshake from the governor?” Onyeocha teased, encouraging the athletes to aim for gold and win the governor’s symbolic reward.
The Imo contingent is expected to join their counterparts from across the country at the opening ceremony on Sunday, as the nation’s top talents converge for two weeks of fierce competition and celebration of sportsmanship.
