Team Delta has emerged overall winner of the 22nd National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway Games 2024, which officially came to a close on Thursday at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, Afrosport reports.
With an impressive medal haul of 323 medals comprising 122 gold, 96 silver, and 105 bronze, Delta successfully won its ninth festival and defended its title, having also claimed victory at the 2022 edition of the festival.
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Hosts, team Ogun came second after clinching two more gold medals on the final day in para-table tennis, taking its haul to 93 gold, 65 silver and 80 bronze, a total of 238 medals.
Bayelsa came third with 92 gold, 65 silver, and 71 bronze, totalling 228 medals.
The festival, which brought together thousands of athletes from across the country, showcased exceptional talent and fostered unity among Nigeria’s diverse regions.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented at the closing ceremony by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, lauded Ogun State for hosting a world-class event. He praised the smooth organisation and the state’s commitment to sports development.
“I commend the government and people of Ogun State for the successful hosting of the 22nd National Sports Festival,” Akpabio said. “This event has not only showcased the spirit of competition but also the unity and potential of our great nation. I urge Enugu State, the next host, to build on this standard and deliver an even greater experience in 2026.”
Meanwhile, the baton was officially passed to Enugu state, who will host the multi-sport event in 2026.
