Ogun State Government has paid more than ₦450 million in cash rewards to athletes and officials who represented the state at the 22nd National Sports Festival 2024, known as the Gateway Games.
The festival was held in Abeokuta last March, where Team Ogun finished second with 93 gold, 65 silver, and 81 bronze medals.
Speaking at a ceremony held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the State Head of Service Kehinde Onasanya, said the payments show the government’s commitment to rewarding excellence.
He confirmed that all training allowances, participation fees, and contractual payments owed to athletes and officials have now been cleared.
READ ALSO
- Ramadan 1447 Begins as Saudi Arabia Sights Crescent Moon
- Eniola Bolaji Makes History as World No. 1 in Para Badminton
- DHQ Confirms Arrival of 100 US Troops, Equipment in Nigeria
Gold medallists received ₦2.5 million each, silver medallists ₦1.5 million each, and bronze medallists ₦1 million each. Team sport athletes also received additional support.
The governor also approved ₦10 million for coaches and ₦14.8 million for other officials, recognising their role in the team’s success.
He said the reward is meant to motivate athletes and encourage young people in Ogun State to take sports seriously as a career.
Ogun has recently increased investment in sports infrastructure and hosted more competitions. The government says it will continue funding sports development ahead of the next National Sports Festival in Enugu.
About the Author
