The 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games 2024,” concluded with Team Delta emerging as the overall champions, solidifying their dominance in Nigerian sports. Hosted in Ogun State and officially inaugurated by President Bola Tinubu on May 18, the festival witnessed fierce competition among athletes from various states across the nation. Delta’s impressive medal haul of 109 gold, 75 silver, and 87 bronze medals secured their top position, followed by Bayelsa in second place and the host state, Ogun, claiming the third position. The announcement also confirmed Enugu State as the next host for the 2025 edition of the games, setting the stage for another exciting display of athletic prowess and interstate rivalry.
Delta State’s triumphant performance was attributed to the unwavering commitment and strategic investments of the state government, particularly under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori. Onoriode Oborevwori, the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, dedicated the victory to the governor, highlighting it as a testament to his “MORE Agenda,” which prioritizes youth empowerment and sporting excellence. This victory served as a celebratory milestone, coinciding with Governor Oborevwori’s two years in office, underscoring the administration’s focus on developing and nurturing young talent in the state. The chairman emphasized that Delta’s success was not merely about collecting medals but about fostering personal growth, inspiring hope, and demonstrating the transformative power of effective leadership coupled with concrete action.
The resounding success of Team Delta showcased not just individual brilliance but also the collective effort of athletes, coaches, administrators, and support staff. Onoriode Oborevwori commended the athletes for their discipline, hard work, and dedication, recognizing their crucial role in achieving this remarkable feat. He also acknowledged the significant contributions of the technical crew, administrators, and support staff, emphasizing their behind-the-scenes efforts in ensuring the team’s smooth operation and optimal performance. This holistic approach, encompassing athletes, coaches, and support systems, underscores Delta State’s commitment to building a robust and sustainable sporting ecosystem.
The chairman’s words resonated with pride and gratitude, reflecting the state’s sustained investment in sports development. He emphasized that the victory was a product of smart investments and astute leadership, highlighting the “MORE Agenda” as a catalyst for youth empowerment and sporting achievements. This emphasis on long-term planning and strategic resource allocation demonstrates Delta State’s commitment to creating a nurturing environment for athletes to flourish. The consistent success of Team Delta at the National Sports Festival further solidifies their position as a powerhouse in Nigerian sports, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate.
Looking beyond the immediate victory, Onoriode Oborevwori expressed anticipation for the closing ceremony where Team Delta would officially receive the championship trophy. He reiterated the state’s commitment to nurturing and developing young talent, emphasizing the importance of creating opportunities for youths to thrive through sports. This forward-looking perspective underscores Delta State’s dedication to sustaining its sporting dominance and continuing to produce champions in the years to come. The “MORE Agenda,” as highlighted by the chairman, appears to be the driving force behind this sustained success, emphasizing the critical role of government support and strategic investment in building a thriving sports culture.
The 22nd National Sports Festival, therefore, served as a platform not only to celebrate athletic achievements but also to showcase the transformative impact of strategic investments in sports development. Delta State’s resounding victory serves as a testament to their long-term commitment to nurturing young talent, creating opportunities for youth empowerment, and fostering a culture of sporting excellence. As Enugu State prepares to host the next edition of the games, the bar has been set high, and the nation anticipates another exciting display of athleticism and sportsmanship. The “Gateway Games 2024” concluded with a clear message: sustained investment and strong leadership are crucial ingredients for success in sports development.
