ABEOKUTA– The Founder, Convener, and Sole Owner of the Gateway Snooker Tournament, Afolabi Roseline Bolanle has described Snooker as more than just entertaining sports.
Bolanle stated that if truly harnessed, snooker is a developmental initiative, capable of empowering young people, creates opportunities, boosts tourism, and strengthens the sports and entertainment culture in the state.
Popularly known as Ruby, Bolanle stated this while briefing newsmen in Abeokuta on the successful hosting of the year 2025 edition of the Gateway Snooker Tournament.
“When I created the Gateway Snooker Tournament, my vision was simple yet powerful — to build a platform that truly belongs to me, powered by passion, and capable of bringing talent, entertainment, and opportunity together under one umbrella.
“Today, seeing how far we have grown, I am proud of the legacy we are building. This year’s edition was truly remarkable. This edition was nothing short of extraordinary
“We hosted 32 highly skilled snooker players, including the Guinness World Record holder, Shehu Abana, alongside several top-10-ranked players in Nigeria.
“Their participation elevated the entire experience, offered world-class entertainment, and reinforced the status of the Gateway Snooker Tournament as a respected and influential competition in the snooker community.
“From the first break to the final shot, the passion, the energy, and the engagement from the crowd showed clearly that what we are doing is meaningful — something that is changing the narrative”, she said
Bolanle stated that about 1500 spectator graced the tournament, with players coming from within Nigeria, and outside, including the World Record Holder, Shehu Abana.
“We recorded over 1,500 spectators, not just from within Ogun State, but from several states across Nigeria. The turnout, excitement, and crowd engagement proved that the Gateway brand has grown beyond a local event — it is becoming a national attraction.
“The atmosphere remained electric from beginning to end, and the feedback from spectators, players, and stakeholders confirmed that this was our biggest and most successful edition yet”, she added
She however called on the state government to provide assistance for the next edition, thereby positioning Snooker as a sport that brings pride and recognition to Ogun State.
