The just-concluded 22nd National Sports Festival, aptly tagged Gateway Games 2025 because it was held in Ogun State, also known as the Gateway State, was more than just a Nigerian-style Olympic event — it was a spectacular fusion of sportsmanship, cultural celebration, and the showcase of Ogun State as a tourist dream destination.
The sports festival, which commenced on the 16th May,2025 and was concluded on 30th May,2025, in Ogun State, delivered breathtaking opening and closing ceremonies, a rich showcase of Yoruba heritage, and a deeply emotional moment of national mourning.
The opening ceremony of the festival, which took place at the newly upgraded MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, the opening ceremony of Gateway Games 2025 set a new standard in terms of sports festival hosting in Nigeria. A medley of traditional and contemporary performances thrilled a crowd of thousands. Ogun State used this opportunity to effectively display its deep cultural roots, building upon the energy of the recently concluded Lisabi Festival — a celebration of Egba heroism and unity — and also setting the tone for the upcoming Ojude Oba Festival in Ijebu-Ode.
The stadium came alive with choreographed renditions of Egungun masquerade dances, Bata drumming, and performances from local troupes that paid homage to Ogun’s historical warriors and deities. Delegates from Nigeria’s 36 states paraded in colourful traditional attire, giving the event the air of a cultural carnival. Babcock University served as the Games Village for some of the indoor events like table tennis, among many others, a first in the history of the festival, providing both athletes and spectators a serene and structured environment.
Artists’ Performances and Festival Energy
The festival was not only about medals — it was a celebration of identity. Top Nigerian artists, including Davido, Asa, Wande Coal, and others, electrified the evenings with performances that kept the stadium buzzing after daily events. Fuji legend Wasiu Ayinde Marshal (K1 De Ultimate) closed out the night before the grand finale with a soulful tribute to Ogun State’s cultural legacy.
Food vendors, artisans, and fashion designers also had a share of the spotlight. A festival market sprawled across major venues, where local Adire fabric, tie-and-dye, and indigenous cuisines like Ofada rice and Ayamase stew attracted both locals and visitors. Ogun turned the sports festival into a cultural expo.
Sporting Triumphs and Standout Performers
Team Delta maintained its reign at the top of the medals table, dominating across track events, swimming, and team sports. Lagos followed closely with impressive victories in basketball, hockey, and volleyball. Ogun State, the host, had its best-ever showing, finishing third overall — a reflection of meticulous preparation and home-ground advantage.
Of particular note was the inclusion of the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA), a neutral contingent of emerging talents from the National Youth Games. Their participation added youthful vigour and underscored the Games’ commitment to future champions.
Closing Ceremony: Celebrating Excellence and Leadership
The closing ceremony was as vibrant as the opening. Beyond sports, it became a tribute to leadership and cultural pride. As the curtains fell on the 14-day event, Ogun State celebrated the birthday of its Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, in a heartfelt segment that blended state pride with national acknowledgement.
Drummers, dancers, and fireworks filled the air, while a medley of birthday songs and spoken-word tributes from youth ambassadors and athletes rounded off the night. The Governor, clearly moved, used the moment to pledge continued support for sports and culture as pillars of youth empowerment and unity.