May 07, (THEWILL) – Ogun State and the Federal Government have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), on hosting a world-class National Sports Festival in 2024,
Governor Dapo Abiodun, shortly after signing the MoU, informed the Minister of Sports and Youth Development, Sunday Dare, at the weekend, said the state was known for recording many firsts and hosting of the competition would not be an exception.
“Ogun State indigenes have invested in sports development in Nigeria. Apart from that we have eminent sports men and women who have distinguished themselves and brought glory to this country. We are ready to host a world-class festival next year. We have capable hands and sponsors that are ready to support us.
“I want to assure you that we will live up to expectations as reflected in the MoU. I can assure you that we will not disappoint you.
“I want to assure you that like you have said to me that the one in Edo was a very good showing, the one in Delta was better than the one in Edo, the one in Ogun will be the best. We will immediately move to set up a Local Organising Committee,” he said
Abiodun explained that the National Sports Festival was developed to promote unity and cohesion among the youths, observing that Ogun as a state with a huge number of youths due to the large number of education institutions, his administration has developed strategies to gainfully engage them through sports and other relevant activities.
“Sports is a tool to teach our youth leadership skills development, discipline, team work and self confidence. When youth are busy through sports engagements, they won’t have time for social vices. Some of them have developed into world beaters and we will continue to encourage them”, Abiodun added.
He recalled how the state performed very well in the last edition of the Festival by hauling 70 medals, thanking the minister and the Federal Ministry of Sports for supporting the state at the bidding stage.
The governor, however, assured that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure a successful sports festival next year.
The minister while speaking said the choice of Ogun State as the next host was due to its culture of sports development, availability of sporting infrastructure and potential to host a befitting festival that would linger for a long time.
Dare said that the state was blessed with prominent sports men and women who have made the country proud, expressing confidence that its performance as the host of the next edition would surpass the last two editions.
He called on the state to commence preparations as soon as possible, assuring that corporate bodies that are ready to sponsor the competition handsome incentives in terms of tax holidays, among others.
