By Samuel Akpan in Abeokuta
Delta State has once again proven its dominance in Nigerian sports, securing its fifth consecutive championship title at the just-concluded National Sports Festival.
The official announcement of Delta State’s triumph was made by Bukola Olopade, chairperson of the Main Organising Committee for the Gateway Games 2024, during the closing ceremony held in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Thursday night.
Persecondnews reporter, who covered the games, reports that even with the final medal tally pending the conclusion of the Table Tennis event, Delta State’s significant lead made their overall victory undeniable and undisputable.
With an impressive tally of 122 gold, 96 silver, and 105 bronze medals (totaling 323), Delta State’s dominance remained unchallenged.
Persecondnews reports that the state’s consistent success reflects years of sustained investment in sports development, athlete training, and youth empowerment programmes.
This achievement is a testament to the state’s commitment to nurturing sporting talent and promoting excellence.
In a stunning turn of events, Ogun State surged past Bayelsa into the second place on the medals table.
Ogun’s tally reached 92 gold, 64 silver, and 78 bronze medals (totaling 232) after securing two additional gold medals and one silver in para table tennis.
Bayelsa, with 91 gold, 61 silver, and 70 bronze medals (222 total), narrowly missed the second spot.
The Gateway Games 2024 also highlighted advancements in gender inclusion.
The Nigeria Olympic Committee’s Women Commission recognized Anambra and Kogi States, as well as the Invited Junior Athletes team, with special trophies for their efforts in promoting equal participation of women within their contingents.
This initiative highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity in sports.
As the curtain falls on this year’s festival, attention shifts to Enugu State, the next host of the National Sports Festival.
Organizers have pledged to build on the gender inclusion initiatives introduced in the Gateway Games 2024, ensuring the event continues to foster unity, diversity, and national pride.
The National Sports Festival remains a platform for promoting sports development, unity, and national pride.
The final medal standings saw Delta State at the top, followed by Ogun State in second place, Bayelsa State in third, Edo State in fourth, and Rivers State in fifth. The top five standings are:
1. Delta State – 122 Gold, 96 Silver, 105 Bronze (323 Total)
2. Ogun State – 92 Gold, 64 Silver, 78 Bronze (232 Total)
3. Bayelsa State – 91 Gold, 61 Silver, 70 Bronze (222 Total)
4. Edo State – 63 Gold, 96 Silver, 114 Bronze (273 Total)
5. Rivers State – 74 Gold, 56 Silver, 62 Bronze (192 Total)
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