Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun on Saturday emphasised the significant positive impact of the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) on the state.

 Speaking during Saturday’s athletics event, he said the successful hosting of the NSF had positioned Ogun as a model state and a gateway to excellence.

 The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the governor toured several sports centres across Abeokuta to observe the competitions.

 He visited the Alake Sports Centre, Ikeja, where he watched matches in handball, table tennis, squash and other events.

 The governor later arrived at the MKO Abiola Sports Centre, the festival’s main venue, to witness more events and present medals.

 He awarded medals after the mixed relay race, where Ogun won gold and praised the athletes’ performances and sportsmanship.

 Describing the 22nd NSF as the best-organised in its history, Abiodun expressed pride in the event’s overall execution.

 “Our vision was to host a memorable NSF. We worked passionately, and today, we all witness the success of that vision,” he stated.

 He noted the enthusiasm and participation across the sports events, expressing excitement at the festival’s inclusiveness and energetic atmosphere.

 “The economic multiplier effect we’ve seen from the NSF has been impressive,” he said, highlighting its benefit to local businesses and tourism.

 Abiodun stressed the importance of quantifying the economic impact of the festival on Ogun.

 He thanked the sports commission chairman, director general, LOC, MOC and especially Kweku Tandor for their dedication.

 The commissioner for sports and all contributors to the event’s success also received the governor’s appreciation.

 “Ogun has restored the prestige of the NSF. We showed the nation what excellence looks like,” the governor said.