Ogun State Government has said the resuscitation of the Gateway Tertiary Institutions Games (GATIG) is to discourage inter-institutional prejudice by fostering peaceful coexistence among young people from diverse backgrounds.

 As it also restated its commitment to engaging youths in physical and mental activities and empowering them, to make the State proud in future sporting events.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Sports, Engr. Olayiwola Abiodun made this clarification at the closing of the Gateway Tertiary Institutions Games (GATIG), at Gateway International Stadium Sagamu.

Abiodun who explained that the games were resuscitated last year after eight years of abandonment by the previous administration said the government aims to reposition sports as a vocation and a means of earning a living.

He appreciated the State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun for his unflinching support, saying engaging youths in sporting activities would go a long way, especially in attaining personal development.

Speaking, the Chairman, Tai Solarin University of Education Sports Council, Prof. Dupe Banjo applauded the conveners of the programme for keeping the momentum of the games, as this year’s edition was higher than the previous one, assuring that next year’s event would witness more participation.

One of the athletes, Mr. Adekunle Abe urged the organisers to incorporate more sporting activities into the games, as it would give the event more participation and awareness among the students.

Nine higher institutions in the State participated in the 3-day event with Tai Solarin University of Education (TASUED) Ijagun, leading with 21 Gold, 15 Silver, and 8bronze medals while Olabisi Onabanjo University (OOU), Ago-Iwoye and Federal College of Education, Osiele came second and third respectively.