By Olusegun Folarin
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has rewarded medal-winning athletes who represented the state at the 22nd National Sports Festival hosted in the state.
At a colourful cash award ceremony held in Abeokuta, Governor Abiodun announced over four hundred and fifty million naira in cash prizes for athletes who won gold, silver and bronze medals at the prestigious national competition.
The Governor who was represented by the head of service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya described the reward as the fulfilment of promises made to the athletes during the games.
He added that all statutory obligations, including training allowances, participation allowances and contract fees, had been fully paid.
He commended the athletes for their discipline, resilience and determination, noting that their performance had further positioned Ogun State as a leading force in sports development in Nigeria.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka had described the festival as a symbol of unity and healthy competition.
According to him, the state did not only host successfully but also excelled in performance.
Ninety-three gold medalists received two point five million naira each, sixty-one silver medalists were awarded with one point five million naira each while Eighty-one bronze medalists went home with one million naira each.
