Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, has expressed strong confidence in the readiness of the state’s athletes to compete effectively at the upcoming 2024 National Sports Festival, despite the added pressure of being the host state.
The 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, Nigeria’s equivalent of the Olympic Games, is scheduled to be held from May 16 to 30 across venues in Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, and other selected locations within the state.
With over 742 athletes set to represent Ogun State in various sporting disciplines, Isiaka believes the contingent is fully prepared to hold its own against teams from across the country. Speaking in Abeokuta, the commissioner highlighted the ongoing training and preparation efforts across the state.
“Apart from ensuring that we stage the best National Sports Festival, we are also ready to compete fairly against other teams as the host. Over 742 athletes in all sports will represent us at the 22nd edition of Nigeria’s version of the Olympic Games,” Isiaka stated.
“Our athletes are receiving adequate preparation, and they are all in camp, training earnestly for the games. Some are based in Lagos, Ilaro, and various locations across the state, working tirelessly. We are aware of the pressure that comes with being the host, which is why we’ve allowed our athletes to train with the actual facilities they will use during the festival to help them feel more comfortable and prepared.”
Beyond immediate competition, Isiaka emphasized the long-term impact of the festival, especially in shaping youth development in Ogun State through sport. He reiterated the state’s commitment to turning sports into a viable path for youth empowerment and national talent discovery.
“We understand the impact of sports, and we don’t just want to host for hosting’s sake,” he said. “We aim to galvanise the interest of the youth in sports. Apart from being a lucrative venture, sports teach life lessons like discipline, teamwork, and resilience.”
He added, “Our youth are our future, and Ogun State has always been at the forefront of discovering talents for the country. We want to continue this even after the festival, ensuring that all our facilities are judiciously used by our youth to empower themselves through sports.”
