NSF: TEAM OYO UNVEILS POWERFUL NSF SQUAD: 421-MEMBER CONTINGENT FOR GATEWAY GAMES

Oyo state athletes are set and ready for the forthcoming National Sports Festival tagged "Gateway 2024" in Ogun state with 320 athletes, 65 coaches and 36 officials. The Nigerian version of the Olympic Games is billed to commence May 16 to 30, 2025.

According a release made available to Tumite News, Oyo state contingent will feature in 32 sports consisting of 27 compulsory and 5 optional sports

Speaking to newsmen while addressing the athletes, coaches and sports officers selected for participation in the main bowl of Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan. Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Honourable Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke stated that Oyo state government under the leadership of the Governor Seyi Makinde has graciously approved the minimum wage of eighty thousand naira for the athletes, coaches and sports officers that are on contract appointments in the state.

She remarked that this act of magnanimity on the part of Governor Seyi Makinde will not only boost the morale of the athletes but also serve as an impetus for them in the forthcoming national festival and subsequent tournaments.

Honourable Wasilat Adefemi Adegoke also pledged on behalf of Oyo State Government that instant rewards will be offered to athletes that secured Gold, Silver and bronze medals during the competitions stressing that adequate provisions will be provided to make their stay convenient and memorable.

In his response, the Executive Assistant on Sports Development to the Governor, Engineer Akin Akinleye admonished the athletes to refrain from all vices that may dent the good image of oyo state government stressing that the state will reward athletes that record outstanding performances.

The Commissioner expressed optimism that the athletes will make the state proud considering their level of preparation and commitments. She disclosed further that the "Torch of Unity" will be formally presented to the Executive Governor of Oyo State on Tuesday 13 th May to herald the commencement of the festival, create awareness and sensitise members of the public about these national sports fiesta.

The National Sports festiva will involve all the 36 states including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The events are scheduled to take place in Abeokuta, ijebu Ode, Sagamu and Ikenne.