The 2022 National Sports Festival had an opening ceremony of sparks, beauty, colours and thrills which was felt across the board to raise the curtains on the game in Asaba.
Spectators were thrilled with dance, music, calisthenics display, and fireworks in what represented one of the best organised opening ceremonies in the history of the games.
The Minister for Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare alongside four state governors graced the event at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta state. Executive Governor of Delta State, Ifeanyi Okowa, Executive Governor of Bayelsa state, Douye Diri, Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki, and Sokoto State Governor, Aminu Tambuwal were all in attendance to witness the spectacle.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Alh. Ismaila Abubakar, as well as the House Committee on Sports chairman, Olumide Osoba were all in attendance, alongside well-meaning Nigerians.
The ceremony ushered in contingents from all states, as athletes and officials matched in their colourful attires and costumes in beauty and finesse.
Afro-music sensation and bounce crooner, Ruger treated the crowd with his melodies, sending the arena into a frenzy.
The doggedness of the Local Organising Committee and the Main Organising Committee was palpable with the level of organization during the ceremony.
In what represents a beautiful curtain raiser to the games, athletes, officials, and fans pictured in excitement will be looking forward to excellent sporting displays throughout the festival.
Dominica Nwabufo
