Benue State Absent at Gateway Games 2025 Opening Ceremony, Arrives Late

Benue State was noticeably absent during the opening ceremony of the National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2025, currently underway in Ogun State.

The festival officially commenced on May 18 and will run until May 30. During the ceremonial parade, all states of the federation were represented—except Benue, which had no visible presence on the field.

Findings revealed that as of the time of the opening ceremony, Benue was the only state without a registered contingent at the event.

Efforts to reach the Benue State Commissioner for Youths and Sports, Hon. Terkimbi Ikyange, for clarification were unsuccessful, as calls and messages went unanswered.

However, Emmanuel Agye, Secretary of the Benue Wrestling Association, confirmed the state’s participation. “We are here already. Benue is here,” he stated, explaining that the delay in arrival was due to unforeseen challenges en route.

Despite the late arrival, Benue State is now set to compete in the ongoing games.