By Michael Ofulue, Osogbo

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The General Manager Osun State Sports Council, Mr. Rotimi Dumoye, expressed satisfaction with the level of readiness and support received from the state government as the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, draws near.

 Team Osun is ramping up preparations ahead of their departure for Ogun State. The much-anticipated multi-sport event is scheduled to begin on Thursday, May 16, 2025.

While interacting with the media , the General Manager of the Osun State Sports Council, Mr. Rotimi Dumoye, expressed satisfaction with the level of readiness and support received from the state government. According to him, almost all necessary provisions have been made to ensure a smooth and successful outing for the state’s athletes and officials.

“We are grateful for everything Governor  Ademola Jackson Adeleke and his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi—who also doubles as the Commissioner for Sports—have done in support of our preparations,” Mr. Dumoye stated. “Most importantly, the welfare of our athletes in Ogun has been fully sorted. From befitting accommodation and feeding to daily allowances, everything has been taken care of.”

Dumoye revealed that an advance party has already been dispatched to Ogun State to ensure all logistics are in place for Team Osun’s contingent. Athletes will be provided with three square meals daily, proper lodging, and stipends to support their stay during the festival.

Additionally, the General Manager confirmed that all athletes will receive track wear, jerseys, sports footwear (canvas), and some sports equipment, courtesy of the state government. However, he noted that while much has been done, more support is still needed.

“Like Oliver Twist, we will always ask for more. We still need improvements in areas such as camping and additional equipment. We’ve been assured that these concerns are being looked into,” he said.

Though formal camping was not conducted due to time constraints, Dumoye acknowledged the efforts of coaches and athletes who took personal initiative to train in advance. He added that the government has promised to recognise and reward these efforts.

“The government has done and is still doing its best to ensure we enjoy a successful outing. We are optimistic that our athletes will make the state proud,” he concluded.

Team Osun is expected to depart Osogbo for Ogun on Saturday, May 17, a day after the opening ceremony of the festival. The Gateway Games 2024 promises to be a showcase of talent, resilience and sportsmanship from all participating states.