Delta State Set to Retain Crown as 22nd National Sports Festival Concludes in Ogun
As the curtain falls on the 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State today, Delta State is poised to once again be crowned champions, continuing their dominance of Nigeria’s premier multi-sport event.
While the official final medal table is still awaited, SportsRation can confirm that Delta State has built an unassailable lead, securing enough medals to stay comfortably ahead of Bayelsa State and host state Ogun State who round out the top three.
Delta’s Sporting Dominance Continues
This latest triumph cements Delta’s reputation as the powerhouse of Nigerian sports, following up their previous victory at the 21st edition in Asaba. Their consistent investment in sports infrastructure, grassroots development, and athlete welfare has once again delivered results on the national stage.
The state’s athletes excelled across various disciplines—from athletics to swimming, gymnastics to team sports—demonstrating both depth and versatility in talent. Their performance underlines Delta’s structured approach to talent development, with a pipeline that continues to produce elite competitors.
Ogun State’s Hosting Praised
The festival, which began 11 days ago, drew thousands of athletes, officials, and spectators from across Nigeria. Hosted in **Abeokuta and surrounding towns**, the event has been widely hailed as one of the best-organized editions in the festival’s history.
Venues such as the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Remo Stadium, and the Alake Sports Centre came alive with vibrant displays of athleticism and community support. Ogun State’s own athletes also rose to the occasion, notably winning the men’s football final with a resounding 4-1 victory over Kwara State, in front of a packed home crowd.
Closing Ceremony and Transition to Enugu 2026
A grand closing ceremony is set to cap off what has been a memorable sporting celebration. The National Sports Commission (NSC), alongside the Ogun State Government, has promised a cultural spectacle as they formally hand over hosting rights to Enugu State, which will stage the 23rd edition in September 2026.
NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dilkkk, and Main Organizing Committee Chair, Hon. Bukola Olopade, expressed pride in the achievements of this year’s festival and gratitude to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Dapo Abiodun for their support.
“Delta State once again showed why they’re the benchmark in Nigerian sports,” said Olopade. “But every state, every athlete contributed to making this a truly exceptional festival.”
As the final medals are counted and Ogun prepares to pass the baton, all eyes now shift to Enugu, with hopes that the .
