By Abimbola Bamgbose
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved a N16.5 million grant for 33 sports associations in the state to support their preparations for the 22nd National Sports Festival, scheduled to take place from May 16 to 30, 2025.
Following this approval, the state’s athletes are expected to commence closed-door training immediately to enhance their readiness for the competition.
The Secretary to the Ogun State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi announced the development on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ engagement at the June 12 Cultural Center, Kuto, Abeokuta.
The event was attended by athletes, coaches, sports association chairpersons, and other stakeholders in the sports sector.
He further emphasized that the funding was not a personal largesse but a strategic investment to facilitate a smooth and efficient preparation for the athletes.
“All beneficiaries are expected to provide a detailed account of how these funds are utilized. Initially, this support will be provided once or twice, after which we will assess feedback. If the outcomes are positive, the initiative will be sustained. However, it is essential to note that this is not an avenue for financial misappropriation. The Governor has placed direct oversight responsibility on the Commissioner for Sports Development,” he added.
Mr. Talabi advised the state athletes to develop unique war chants before their competitions, drawing inspiration from the traditional pre-match rituals of rugby teams.
He said that hosting the National Sports Festival would provide Ogun State an opportunity to implement a strong foundation for long-term sports development and cautioned against sensationalism on social media, urging the public to offer constructive criticisms rather than spreading misinformation.
The Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr. Wasiu Isiaka, revealed that Ogun State’s version of the National Sports Festival would be held in the last week of April.
Mr. Isiaka affirmed the government’s commitment to rewarding outstanding performances and urged the sports associations and coaches to collaborate and contribute innovative ideas to enhance the state’s prospects at the festival.
