FCT Minister Wike to reward athletes for 2022 National Sports Festival
By Tosin Omojola
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Ezenwo Wike, has approved the reward for athletes who excelled during the 2022 National Sports Festival, recognizing their outstanding representation of the FCT.
According to a statement by the Director of Sports, FCT Sports Department, Luka Istifanus, the minister’s decision reflects his commitment to appreciating excellence in sports. Istifanus noted:
“The Minister, in his magnanimity, stated that the athletes deserve to be rewarded for their exceptional performance at the National Sports Festival.”
The FCT achieved a commendable 9th position on the medals table in 2022, a significant improvement compared to its previous outings in the festival.
Athletes have expressed their gratitude for having a sports-loving leader like Wike, who recognizes and rewards hard work.
“We have enjoyed great support from the Minister since he assumed office. He understands the importance of sports in the FCT and the country at large. His concern for athletes’ welfare is evident, and this reward serves as a motivation for us,” an athlete remarked.
Preparations are also underway for the 2024 Gateway Games, set to take place in Ogun State in January 2025. The award ceremony for the 2022 festival athletes is scheduled for December 2024.
Meanwhile, athletes have appealed to the Minister to extend similar rewards to U-15 athletes who represented the FCT in the National Youth Games in 2023 and 2024, where they finished 7th and 9th on the medals table, respectively.
