…State Targets Improved Performance Across 33 Sporting Events
Team Imo has officially departed for the Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival, tagged Gateway 2024, with a contingent of 318 athletes and 118 officials.
The team left the state on Saturday afternoon, brimming with determination despite facing some logistical challenges during the buildup to the biennial competition.
The team’s participation had been in doubt until last-minute approval of funds was secured from the Executive Governor of Imo State, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodimma.
The development lifted spirits within the camp, with the athletes now poised to give their best in Ogun State.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, the Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, delivered a brief but encouraging message to the athletes before their departure. He urged the team to compete with integrity and strive for excellence, using the hurdles faced in the run-up to the event as motivation.
“You have been selected to represent Imo State, and it is your duty to justify that honour. Compete clean and make the state proud,” Onyeocha said. He also assured the athletes and officials that all entitlements would be duly provided.
Imo State is participating in 33 sports, including Swimming, Weightlifting, Para-Powerlifting, Darts, Hockey, Athletics, Judo, Chess, Scrabble, Wrestling, Taekwondo, Abula, Volleyball, Beach Volleyball, and Basketball, among others.
Team Imo is aiming to surpass its performance at the last National Sports Festival held in Asaba, Delta State, where the state clinched 12 gold medals. With renewed hope and resilience, the athletes are optimistic about making a stronger impact in Ogun.
The National Sports Festival remains Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event, and Imo State is determined to leave a lasting impression at this year’s edition.
