Three hundred and twenty athlete, sixty five coaches and thirty six officials will participate in the forthcoming national sports festival tagged ” Gateway 2025″ in Ogun State.
The Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Honourable Wasilat Adegoke made this known while addressing the athletes, coaches and Sports Officers selected for participation in the main bowl of Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The 22nd National Sports festival is scheduled to hold as from 16th to 30th May 2025.
Oyo team will feature in 32 sports consisting of 27 compulsory and five optional sports.
The Commissioner disclosed further that the 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 it will also serve as an impetus for them in the forthcoming national festival and subsequent tournaments.
While addressing the athletes the Commissioner 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 admonish the athletes to eschew 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 said 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 Festival 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.
