Chijioke Gabriel
Delta State has once again cemented its status as Nigeria’s sporting powerhouse, emerging champions of the 22nd National Sports Festival, the fifth time it will be doing so back to back.
The triumph was officially announced by Bukola Olopade, chairperson of the Main Organising Committee for the Gateway Games 2024, during Thursday’s closing ceremony in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
Although the final medal tally has yet to be released due to the pending conclusion of the Table Tennis event, with 109 gold, 75 silver and 87 bronze, Delta State had already secured a commanding lead, making its overall victory indisputable.
Team Bayelsa secured second place with Ogun finishing third.
The Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, dedicated the win to the state governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, as part of the celebrations for his two years in office.
“This victory is for His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, whose unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and sports excellence through the MORE Agenda has brought us this far.
“Even though some medal events are still to be concluded, our commanding lead confirms that Delta is once again number one,” said Oborevwori.
Oborevwori praised the athletes, coaches, and the whole Team Delta for their discipline, hard work, and dedication.
He said this success comes from smart investment and good leadership.
He stated, “This is not just about medals; it’s about building lives and inspiring hope. The MORE Agenda has opened doors for our youths to thrive through sports, and this win is proof of what is possible when leadership meets action.”
He also thanked the technical crew, administrators, and support staff for their hard work, saying they played a key role in Delta’s strong position in national sports.
He added, “As we look forward to receiving the championship trophy during the closing ceremony, we do so with gratitude, pride, and the determination to keep building champions.”
The event, called “Gateway Games 2024,” was officially opened by President Bola Tinubu on May 18.
The National Sports Festival, often referred to as Nigeria’s “mini-Olympics,” brings together athletes from across the country to compete in various sporting disciplines
As the curtain falls on the Gateway Games 2024, attention now turns to Enugu State, which has been named the next host of the National Sports Festival.
Full details of the medal table is still being awaited.