Gateway Games 2024: Scattered venues affecting athletes’ performance, Kwara boss laments
The scattered nature of venues at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State has attracted heavy condemnation from some of the participating states.
Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Bola Mogaji, while speaking with journalists at the Alake Sports Centre, pointed out that the long distance between the venue is affecting the performances of the athles.
“The wide spread of event locations—ranging from Babcock University to Remo Stars Stadium and MKO Abiola Stadium—is negatively impacting athletes’ performances.
” It’s difficult to manage logistics and ensure full participation,” Mogaji said.
Mogaji will however commend the host their wonderful facilities put in place by state in hosting the festival.
” Ogun State has made commendable strides in upgrading its sports infrastructure which has impacted positive on the festival.
Despite the hurdles, Team Kwara celebrated its first medal at the Games—a silver clinched by Sidiq Bolaji Sodiq in the Wushu Kungfu (Nanquan) category.
Coach Mogaji attributed the achievement to the sustained support from the state government under Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq.
“The medal is a direct result of the Governor’s foresight and investment in our athletes,” he added, commending the administration’s backing that enabled the Wushu team to participate in preparatory competitions prior to the Festival.
Mogaji reiterated Kwara’s ambition to surpass its previous medal haul, assuring that the athletes remain focused and determined despite the logistical challenges.
