The Ogun State Government has disbursed more than N450 million to athletes and officials who represented the state at the National Sports Festival 2024.
The 22nd edition of the Games, tagged Gateway Games, was hosted in Abeokuta in March last year.
Team Ogun finished second overall, clinching 93 gold, 65 silver and 81 bronze medals in a strong showing.
Governor Dapo Abiodun approved the reward package to appreciate medalists, coaches and technical officials.
He was represented at the ceremony by the State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, at the June 12 Cultural Centre.
The governor described the performance as proof of sustained investment and steady progress in the state’s sports sector.
He announced N2.5 million for each gold medalist, N1.5 million for silver winners and N1 million for bronze medalists.
Athletes in team sports also received additional financial recognition for their collective achievements.
Earlier promises made during visits to camp were fulfilled, including N50,000 grants to qualified athletes.
Training allowances, participation fees and outstanding contractual payments have also been fully settled, according to the governor.
Abiodun further approved N10 million for coaches through the Director of Coaching.
An additional N14.8 million was released for other participating officials through the Director of Administration and Supply.
He commended coaches and administrators for their discipline, mentorship and professionalism throughout the festival.
The governor said the financial gesture is designed to motivate athletes and inspire young residents to pursue sports careers.
He highlighted improvements in sporting infrastructure and increased hosting of international competitions in the state.
Looking ahead, Abiodun urged athletes to prepare for the next National Sports Festival scheduled for Enugu.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sustained funding and long-term sports development in Ogun State.
