Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun has opened up on the transportation, logistics plans for the 22nd National Sports Festival billed to hold in Abeokuta.
The Festival which has been tagged ‘Gateway Games’ will kick off from May 16 to 30.
Abiodun has promised the athletes and other participants smooth transportation to event venues across the state.
With more than five venues hosting various events during the NSF, the governor confirmed that shuttle buses would be provided from the games village at Babcock University to the different centres across the state to ensure the timely commencement of events.
He said: “We understand the importance of ensuring prompt starts for all events. To avoid delays, we will provide sufficient shuttle buses to transport teams to their respective venues across the state. All 10,000 athletes will be well catered for during the games, and these shuttle buses must operate on schedule.”
The Governor also acknowledged the support of the private sector in hosting the festival while also praising the Federal Government.
Abiodun concluded: “I must acknowledge the private sector’s support, which has come in various forms, ranging from gold to silver sponsorships. This support is ongoing because the government cannot do it alone. I also want to thank President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for the Federal Government’s support in staging a befitting sports festival.
“As a forward-thinking government, our initiatives are intentional. We’ve significantly upgraded our infrastructure, including major roads, in preparation for this festival.
“Winning the bid was just the beginning. We now realize the scale of this endeavor, but our progress reassures us that we are on the right path. The economic ripple effect is already evident — hotels are fully booked and local traders are thriving.”
“We’re already witnessing the positive impact, even before the games kick off. This goes beyond sports. We are boosting the state’s GDP and transforming sports facilities into economic and tourism assets.”
Similarly, Ogun State Commissioner for Sports, Honourable Wasiu Isiaka, has confirmed that foreign athletes will represent the state in the festival.
He said: “I doubt if any of the top five or six states will arrive without foreign athletes. We are not only ready for them but we are bringing our own too.”
Ogun State is hosting the National Sports Festival for the second time after they hosted the prestigious games in 2006.
