The Ogun State government has assured the federal government of their readiness to host a world-class National Sports Festival next year. Governor Abiodun, gave the assurance during the weekend after signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the federal government through the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development to host the 2024 edition of the biannual National Sports Festival.

He assured the Sports Minister Sunday Dare that Ogun is noted 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 Organizing Committee,” the governor stated. In his remarks, Sports Minister Sunday Dare said the choice of Ogun State as the next host was due to its culture of sports development, availability of sporting infrastructure and potentials to host a befitting festival that would linger for a long time.

He said the state has been endowed with famous sports men and women making the country proud, and expressed confidence that its performance as the host of the next edition will outshine the last two editions. The Sports Minister however, called on the state to start preparations, as soon as possible, assuring corporate bodies that are ready to sponsor the competition handsome incentives, such as; tax holidays, and others.

Ada Peter