Ogun Governor Approves ₦450m Cash Rewards for Team Ogun

Ogun Governor Approves ₦450m Cash Rewards for Team Ogun

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved over ₦450 million in cash rewards for athletes and officials of Team Ogun following their outstanding performance at the recently concluded National Sports Festival (NSF).

The approval was announced on Tuesday by the state government as part of efforts to reward excellence and motivate sports development across Ogun State. Team Ogun recorded one of its best outings in the history of the festival, securing multiple medals across different sporting events and placing the state among the top-performing contingents at the competition.

According to the state government, the cash rewards will be distributed among athletes, coaches, and technical officials who contributed to the team’s success at the festival. The initiative, the government said, reflects its commitment to recognising talent, encouraging youth participation in sports, and strengthening grassroots sports development.

Governor Abiodun praised the athletes for their discipline, determination, and dedication, describing their performance as a proud moment for the state. He noted that sports remain a critical platform for youth empowerment, unity, and economic opportunity, adding that Ogun State would continue to invest in facilities, training, and talent discovery.

“The achievements of Team Ogun at the National Sports Festival have brought honour and recognition to our state. This reward is a token of our appreciation and a motivation for them to continue striving for excellence,” the governor was quoted as saying.

The National Sports Festival, often referred to as Nigeria’s “Olympics,” brings together athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete in various sporting disciplines. It serves as a key platform for discovering emerging talents and promoting sports development nationwide.

Sports stakeholders in Ogun State have welcomed the governor’s decision, describing it as a positive step toward building a strong sports culture and encouraging young athletes to pursue professional careers in sports. They also urged sustained investment in training facilities, coaching, and sports administration to ensure long-term success.

With the approval of the cash rewards, Team Ogun athletes are expected to receive their payments in line with the state’s reward structure for medal winners and support staff. The move further reinforces Ogun State’s growing reputation as a hub for sports excellence in Nigeria.