The Local Organising Committee (LOC) onthe 18th National Sports Festival said on Monday that the gates of the Teslim Balogun Stadium would be thrown open for Tuesday's Games opening ceremony.
Peter Bolumole, Secretary, Protocols and Ceremonials Sub-committee of the LOC, in Lagos that the venue for the historic event was ready.
Bolumole said that the official time for the commencement of the ceremony for the biennial Games, tagged "Eko 2012" was 4: 00 p.m.
He noted that the gates would be thrown open from 3 p.m., free of charge to sports-loving Nigerians.
"LagosStateis ready and we promise to put up a thrilling opener to the historic Games because the sports festival is one that we value a lot.
"The official time for the opening ceremony is 4: 00 p.m. but the gates would be thrown open by 3:00 p.m. and entry is free for all sports lovers," the sub-committee secretary said.
Bolumole revealed that among expected dignitaries are President Goodluck Jonathan, who would be represented by Vice-President Namadi Sambo; Gov. Babatunde Fashola, as well as all other state governors.
He expressed confidence that the event would be colourful and would also reflect the state's cultural heritage.
The sub-committee Secretary also disclosed that one of the country's best musical artistes, Banky W, is expected to grace the ceremony with his performance.
"We are confident of a colourful and delightful ceremony that will reflect the cultural richness of the state.
"Also, Banky W, who is one of the country's best musical artistes, will be performing. As such, we expect this will turn out to be a magnificent event," he said.
The secretary also assured Nigerians that security would be tight at the venue and urged sports fans to have no cause for alarm.
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