NSF: Leverage sports for economic development- Tinubu
Abiodun thanked the National Sports Commission (NSC) for their fairness and integrity in ensuring that every medal won by the athletes counts to them.
He congratulated the athletes for their unwavering dedication to excellence and show of sportsmanship.
“I want to say congratulations; whether you are leaving here as winners, as runners-up, or by way of experience that you have gathered from this festival.
“You should leave here with your shoulders high, knowing very well that you have represented your state and the nation well.
“On this note, I want to thank everyone that has made this game a huge success. God bless Nigeria,” Abiodun said.
In his remarks, Chairman of the NSC, Mallam Shehu Dikko, commended Ogun government for a successful hosting of the sports festival.
According to him, with the quality of infrastructure and warmth reception, Ogun has raised the bar and set a new benchmark going forward.
He added that the festival has demonstrated the growing viability of the sports economy in Nigeria, “from the sale of merchandise to local merchandising, hospitality and the increase of private partnerships”.
“Ogun 2024 has clearly shown that sports is indeed a driver of economic activities.
“Your generosity, warmth and efficient coordination have made this festival not only successful but memorable in its spirit, which has resulted in positive outcomes both in sporting terms and in the advancement of economic activities.
“You provided the best infrastructure and enablers for the games. You welcomed our athletes, officials, and guests with open arms and demonstrated the highest standards of hospitality and organisation.
“Ogun has indeed raised the bar, and without doubt, these games have now set the benchmark going forward,” he said.
Dikko also thanked Tinubu for his steadfast support for sports development as a tool to unite and transform the nation.
He said that under the Tinubu’s administration, sports has become a pillar for national development, youth engagement and international diplomacy.
The high point of the event was the handing over of the festival flag to the next host of the 2026 National Sports Festival, Enugu State by Abiodun.
The NSF is a biennial multi-sport event organised by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
It brings together athletes from across the country to compete, promoting unity, sportsmanship, and excellence nationwide.
(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
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