The former President Olusegun Obasanjo on Thursday wished athletes and coaches, as well as officials of the concluded National Sports Festival (NSF) held in Abeokuta, Ogun State Capital safe trips to their various destinations.
Penpushing reports that Obasanjo offered the best wishes at the closing ceremony of the two weeks championship held at the Moshood Abiola Sports Arena, Kuto in the ancient town, describing the games as spectacle
‘And now, as we bid farewell, I wish each of you a safe journey back to your States, cities and places of abode. May you travel in peace and return home telling the story of Gateway Games in Ogun State’, he stated.
Penpushing further reports that Obasanjo who was part of the inspiring opening ceremony pointed out that the tournaments tagged, ’Gateway Games 2024’ has been more than a festival of sports – it has been a triumph of unity, display of talents and show of national unity.
‘I perform this task not only as a former Head of State but also as a happy and proud son of Ogun State. I was physically here with you at the colourful, glorious and inspiring Opening Ceremony. And what a spectacle! I watched some of the events in the comfort of my room’.
Penpushing also reports that he commended the host Governor stressing that his leadership, commitment and unwavering dedication have delivered not just a festival, but a legacy he has shown the world the strength, capacity, and hospitality of Ogun State.
‘Over these past two weeks, we have watched Nigeria’s sons and daughters drawn from every region and creed compete not just for medals, but for honour, to make friends and for indicating unyielding hope of a strong and united country’, he added.
Penpushing reports that Obasanjo boasted that the tournaments was a world-class event in every measure and Ogun State Government has raised the standard for all to follow in future.
‘To the 36 States of the Federation, the Federal Capital Territory and the invited junior teams, 38 teams in total, I salute your courage and sportsmanship. Your participation has reminded us that in every young’
Penpushing further reports that Obasanjo pointed out that Nigerian lies capacity for greatness and ability to excel, just as he encourages the athletes that as they go home, they should keep the memories and remember that they are all champions, not only of sports, but of unity, diligence, resilience and national pride.
The former President equally commended the National Sports Commission, the main Organising Committee, the Local Organising Committees, partners, and the thousands of volunteers who gave their time and talent to bring the dream to reality.
‘Thank you all. You have not only organized a festival; you have provided for us proud and exciting moments in our national life and a firm foundation for the future.As someone who has walked the lanes of leadership and who has always believed in Nigeria’s boundless potential’,
‘I urge all of you not to let the flame kindled here in Ogun go dim. Let it burn in our schools, our communities, our institutions and in every young heart determined to contribute to the Nigeria that we must have – a glorious land flowing with milk and honey for the good of all’, he emphasised.
‘May the flame we lit here continue to shine across the land. May Nigeria remain strong and become prosperous. May our youth remain inspired and empowered. May our unity endure. And may all our efforts build the Nigeria we must have. Goodbye. E de ’le layo’, Obasanjo concluded.
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