Gov. Abiodun Splashes N474m On National Sports Festival Medalists, Coaches, Others

ABEOKUTA – In fulfilment of his promise, the Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has rewarded medalists at the 22nd National Sports Festival held in Ogun State, 2025.

The cash reward presentation took place on Monday at the June 12, Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta.

Recall that the governor had in May, 2025 assured athletes representing the state the sum of N2.5m, N1.5m and N1 million for gold, silver and bronze medalists respectively.

Ogun State finished second on the overall medal table, with 93 gold, 65 silver, and 81 bronze medals, totalling 239 medals.

Presenting the cheques to the athletes, governor Abiodun said a total number of 239 athletes were rewarded with additional 300 officials.

Governor Abiodun, who was represented by the Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya said the reward was to honour excellence, diligence and hardwork.

According to him, the state has set a new benchmark for cash rewards in the annals of the National Sports Festival, amounting to over N450 million for the state contingent.

He noted that hosting the festival for the second time demonstrates Ogun State’s capacity, credibility, and commitment to national development through sports.

“I am delighted to note that Team Ogun did not merely host but competed with exceptional distinction, securing an impressive second position with a total of 239 medals, surpassing our previous record.

“This achievement reflects the discipline of our athletes, the expertise of our coaches, and the effectiveness of our investment in sports infrastructure and human capital.

“Our athletes have demonstrated that inner strength. Their achievements are products of years of dedication, perseverance, and an unyielding commitment to excellence. They have carried the pride of Ogun State on their shoulders and have brought honour to our land.

“Today’s ceremony also represents the fulfilment of a promise made by our administration during an unscheduled visit to the Team Ogun contingent at their Games Village camp.

“At that time, we pledged to support and reward their dedication, and I am pleased to reaffirm that all statutory obligations, including training allowances, participation allowances, and contract fees, have been fully paid.
In addition, we announced two distinct cash rewards to motivate excellence. The first, a sum of fifty thousand naira for each athlete who qualified to represent Ogun State, was paid at the camp.

“Furthermore, instant cash awards for medalists were disbursed before the closing ceremony of the festival, demonstrating our commitment to timely recognition of excellence. The practice of rewarding exceptional performance is a tradition under this administration. At the Delta 2022 Games, Team Ogun medalists received substantial rewards for their achievements, and this recognition extended to Ogun State athletes representing Nigeria at the All African Games, where the state independently honoured its athletes beyond federal awards. We believe that excellence must be encouraged, celebrated, and rewarded.

“Today marks yet another historic milestone as we fulfil our second promise by presenting cash rewards exceeding four hundred and fifty million naira to our deserving athletes. Each of the ninety-three gold medalists will receive two million five hundred thousand naira; sixty-one silver medalists will receive one million five hundred thousand naira; and eighty-one bronze medalists will receive one million naira each.

“In recognition of the unique contributions of team sports participants, additional incentives have also been approved. Members of the contingent will equally receive their souvenirs, including festival bags, water flasks, and umbrellas.

The governor, equally splashed the sum of N10milllion for all the state coaches, while administrative staff were given the sum of N14.8million.

In his welcome address, the Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka noted the cash reward may appear symbolic, but they represent the state government’s appreciation and recognition of the athletes’ dedication.

He said the performance of the athletes during the festival demonstrated the steady growth of sports in the state.

Isiaka stressed that, the practice of rewarding exceptional performance in competition is not new under Governor Abiodun’s administration.

“Today, in fulfillment of the second promise, we are witnessing a historic moment as we set a new benchmark for cash rewards in the annals of the National Sports Festival, amounting to over N450 million for our contingent. Each of the 93 gold medalists will receive N2,500,000; 61 silver medalists will take home N1,500,000; while 81 bronze medalists will receive N1,000,000. Additionally, the governor has graciously added extra amounts for Team Sports members due to their numbers.

“Ladies and gentlemen, it is crucial to acknowledge the unprecedented growth of the sports industry in our state. Our administration’s focus on investing in sports facilities and manpower has yielded tangible results. In the past eight months, these facilities have attracted and hosted several high-profile competitions, including the CAF Champions League—our first since 2001—and the African Athletics U18 and U20 Championships, which included 52 African countries, as well as national teams such as the Super Eagles, along with numerous local leagues. Our sports facilities are now buzzing with activity almost weekly.”

The sports commissioner urged the coaches and all athletes to strive for excellence as the state prepares for the 23rd National Sports Festival in Enugu State.