Abeokuta, Ogun State – Defending champions Team Delta have surged to the top of the medals table at the 22nd National Sports Festival (Gateway Games Ogun 2024), displacing early leaders Team Cross River in a dramatic shift on Day Two of competition.
Weightlifting Glory Overtaken by Martial Arts Dominance
Team Delta’s ascent was powered by golden performances in Kung Fu, where:
– Confidence Onyema and Favour Mike claimed gold in the women’s Kaolu demonstration
– Edirin Agha added to the haul with a gold-silver combination in weightlifting
This dethroned Team Cross River’s brief reign, which had been secured by King Kalu Ufiem’s three-gold sweep in the men’s 55kg weightlifting category after his 94kg lift in Sagamu.
Current Medals Standings**
1. Delta – 4 gold, 1 silver
2. Cross River – 3 gold
3. Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) – 2 gold, 1 silver, 2 bronze
4. Lagos – 1 gold, 1 bronze
5. Bayelsa & Rivers (tied) – 2 silver, 1 bronze each
Football Roundup
The pitch action saw several strong opening statements:
– FCT dominated Borno 4-1 in men’s football
– Lagos received a walkover against the absent Team Ondo
– Delta women opened their campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Enugu
Looking Ahead
Wednesday’s schedule features key events in:
– Cycling (Mixed Relay, Team Pursuits)
– Cricket
– Continued weightlifting and team sports
The Gateway Games continue through [closing date], with Team Delta now establishing themselves as the squad to beat in their title defence.
For continuous NSF 2024 coverage, follow oguninsight.com ‘s dedicated sports team.
Timothy Odedina
Sports Correspondent
Dozen Communications
Abeokuta, Ogun State
