Governor Sheriff Oborevwori praised Team Delta’s dominance in Nigeria’s sports arena as a reflection of the state government’s ongoing commitment to sports investment. This statement came after he received the winners’ trophy for the 22nd National Sports Festival, the Gateway Games Ogun 2024. Represented by the Commissioner for Special Duties, Mr. Etacherure Ejiro Terry, he mentioned that Team Delta’s success rewards the government’s effort in nurturing youth development through sports, vowing continued support for sports initiatives in the state. He expressed appreciation for the athletes’ relentless efforts in securing the state’s prominence in sports and assured them of his administration’s dedication to acknowledging outstanding performance. The Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, expressed gratitude to the Governor for his unyielding support, which he deemed vital for the state’s success in the competition. He also lauded the athletes for representing the state admirably, demonstrating composure and professionalism amid difficulties. He guaranteed them that the state government would always prioritize their welfare. Meanwhile, Team Delta completed the games with a total of 126 gold, 100 silver, and 111 bronze medals, securing their fifth consecutive trophy and their ninth overall since their first victory in Bauchi 113. Team Ogun, the hosts, narrowly beat Bayelsa in the final day to secure second place with 93 gold, 65 silver, and 50 bronze medals, while Bayelsa, which was initially expected to finish second, dropped to third after earning 28 gold, 217 silver, and 29 bronze medals. Team Rivers came in fourth place with 23 gold, 123 silver, and 212 bronze medals, and Team Edo rounded out the top five with 220 gold, 101 silver, and 119 bronze medals. Former champions Team Lagos finished sixth with 38 gold, 43 silver, and 88 bronze medals, followed by Team Oyo in seventh place with 113 gold, 37 silver, and 51 bronze medals. Team FCT took eighth place with 14 gold, 8 silver, and 17 bronze medals. Team Osun landed in ninth with 13 gold, 3 silver, and 11 bronze medals, and Team Akwa Ibom secured the tenth spot with 12 gold, 11 silver, and 20 bronze medals. The next National Sports Festival will take place in Enugu next year.
