Team Delta declared winner of 22nd National Sports Festival

Team Delta has been officially confirmed as champions of the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games Ogun 2024, continuing its reign as Nigeria’s undisputed sporting powerhouse.

With a strong lead in the medals table – 109 gold, 75 silver, and 87 bronze as of the morning of May 29th, the team has secured the overall title even as a few events are still to be concluded during the festival’s grand closing ceremony scheduled for Thursday.

In celebration of the victory, the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Honourable Onoriode Oborevwori, has dedicated the triumph to the Executive Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as part of activities marking the Governor’s second year 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 will be concluded during the closing ceremony, our commanding lead confirms that Delta is once again number one.”

Team Delta’s current medal count places it ahead of other top-performing states: Bayelsa (80 gold), Ogun (69 gold), Rivers (65 gold), and Edo (55 gold). While final figures may be adjusted after the remaining events, Delta’s lead is unassailable.

The Sports Commission chairman commended the athletes, coaches, and entire Team Delta contingent for their discipline, determination, and consistent excellence, calling the win a product of hard work, strategic investment, and visionary leadership.

“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.”

The MORE Agenda,which stands for Meaningful development, Opportunities for all, Realistic reforms, and Enhanced peace and security has been the policy thrust of Governor Oborevwori’s administration and has significantly influenced sports development in the state.

Hon. Oborevwori also praised the tireless efforts of the technical team, administrators, and support staff, noting that their behind-the-scenes work was crucial to the success story.

“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,” he added.

The final medal standings, including the outcomes of events concluding during the closing ceremony, will be officially released by the Main Organising Committee (MOC). However, with Delta’s commanding performance, the state’s status as overall champions is already assured.

Delta’s triumph at Gateway Games Ogun 2024 further cements its legacy as the home of champions, a state where excellence in sports is not only expected but continually delivered.