Governor Mbah
Lloyd Ike Ekweremadu, Enugu State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, has pledged that the Coal City Games will elevate the standards of the National Sports Festival as Enugu prepares to take over from Ogun State, the hosts of the 22nd edition, DAILY GAZETTE reports.
The 22nd National Sports Festival, known as Gateway Games 2024, concluded with a closing ceremony at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta on Thursday, where the hosting rights were officially handed over to Enugu State.
Speaking to journalists ahead of the ceremony, Ekweremadu acknowledged the outstanding work done by Ogun State in organizing the festival.
“Ogun State has done a fantastic job in putting the Nigerian sports sector in good light, showcasing what Nigeria is capable of when it comes to organisation and meeting international standards,” he said.
“As far as Enugu State hosting the 23rd edition of the National Sports Festival is concerned, we are getting ready.
“We have been here and we have taken this opportunity to look at what Ogun State has done.
“It’s been smooth sailing in all ramifications. They’ve done a great job and we have taken this opportunity to study how it is done and we can assure you that you should expect a better sports festival in Enugu State.”
The commissioner emphasized that the state government has already begun preparations for a spectacular festival, including the ceremonies.
“If you know anything about the Governor of Enugu State, it should be that he is a man of excellence. We will be more than ready when the time comes to host Nigeria.
“The goal is to outdo what Ogun State has done. The opening ceremony was beautiful and we aim to beat it. Indeed, any state hosting the subsequent National Sports Festival should aim to outdo the last one.”
Ekweremadu also highlighted that visitors, including athletes and officials, will have the opportunity to experience Enugu’s rich tourist and cultural offerings.
“There are lots of tourist attractions with a lot of cultural displays that the people will enjoy when they come.”
Delta State finished as champions of the 2024 National Sports Festival, clinching their fifth consecutive and ninth overall title with 109 gold, 75 silver, and 87 bronze medals.
