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Aiyedatiwa rallies ‘Team Ondo’ at National Sports Festival

Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has charged the state’s contingent at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta to surpass their previous best performance and make the state proud.

The governor, who attended the official opening of the ‘Gateway Games Ogun 2024’ on Sunday at the MKO Abiola International Stadium, paid a surprise visit to the Ondo athletes at their camp at Babcock University on Monday.

He delivered an inspiring message urging them to exceed Ondo State’s all-time highest position, 4th place, at the national competition.

Recalling Ondo’s proud sporting history since the festival’s inception in the early 1970s.

Aiyedatiwa said, “At some point, Ondo State regularly finished between sixth and 13th positions; we’ve even come fourth as our highest. You must not go below that. You must put in your best.”

He encouraged the athletes to remain focused, courageous, and fair in their contests, describing the festival as a possible stepping stone to international sporting careers.

“Some of you, maybe this is where you’ll be discovered for greater performance later in life,” he said.

The governor affirmed his administration’s strong support for sports development, noting his personal passion for sports.

He also assured the athletes of the state’s backing, both morally and materially.

“We are here to encourage you, to identify with you, and to let you know that we are behind you in every way,” he said.

“I am also praying for you that no harm shall come your way.”

Aiyedatiwa encouraged the team to challenge dominant states such as Delta, which has topped the medals table in recent editions, and the host, Ogun State.

The athletes, who expressed gratitude for the governor’s visit, described it as a morale booster.

They praised his continued support and promised to return with an impressive haul of medals.

Meanwhile, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima at the opening ceremony, emphasised the unifying power of sports and its critical role in fostering national cohesion.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, host of the festival, thanked the President for his commitment to sports under the Renewed Hope Agenda and urged participants to compete with honour and integrity.

The 22nd National Sports Festival runs from May 16 to 30, with athletes from across the country competing in various events, including athletics, swimming, basketball, wrestling, and more.

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