Asa Live Performance at the National Sports Festival opening ceremony in Abeokuta

The highly anticipated 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, is set to kick off in grand style with a spectacular opening ceremony featuring a live performance by Nigerian music icon Asa. The event, taking place at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, will mark the beginning of Nigeria’s premier multi-sport competition, bringing together athletes from across the country.

Asa, renowned for her soulful voice and timeless hits, will set the tone for the festival with a stirring rendition of the national anthem, followed by an electrifying performance that promises to captivate attendees. The festival, hosted by Ogun State, has been meticulously planned to reflect international standards, ensuring a world-class experience for athletes, officials, and spectators alike.

The Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade, emphasized the significance of the festival, describing it as Nigeria’s equivalent of the Olympic Games. “This is our own Olympics, and the festival must portray that global feel in both competition and organization,” Olopade stated.

With over 15,000 athletes and officials expected to participate, the National Sports Festival remains a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sporting landscape, fostering unity and excellence through competition. The opening ceremony will also feature a performance by Afrobeats superstar Davido, adding to the excitement and energy of the event.