Olumide Oyedeji, a former NBA star and a member of the Elite Athletes Development and Podium Finish Board, has highlighted the board’s key mandate: to identify and nurture talented athletes for major global events such as the Commonwealth Games, African Games, and the Los Angeles Olympics.
Speaking with journalists at the Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta, Oyedeji, a Nigerian basketball legend, described the ongoing Gateway Games 2024 as a vital platform for discovering young talents capable of representing Nigeria on the international stage.
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“I’m happy to see athletes from across the federation competing in the spirit of love, unity, and togetherness,” Oyedeji said. “This festival promotes national integration and serves as a tool for growth and development.”
He praised the energy, enthusiasm, and camaraderie displayed by participants, emphasising that such events play a crucial role in fostering unity across political and religious divides.
Oyedeji also commended the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for their efforts in ensuring that top-quality facilities were made available. \
He expressed optimism that future hosts would sustain and build on the momentum generated by the Gateway Games 2024.
