Okpebholo pledges cash rewards as 774-athlete team departs for Gateway Games

By Olaolu Joseph

As the 774-member Edo contingent departs for Abeokuta, the Ogun State capital, for the 22nd National Sports Festival, Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has urged the athletes to return home with gold medals.

The governor, represented by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, addressed the team at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin shortly before their departure.

He encouraged the athletes to uphold excellence, good behavior, and sportsmanship, stating: “His Excellency is a man who has interest in sports and will continue to invest in the development of sports in Edo State.

“The governor appreciates your efforts so far, but we believe you can do better. We are tired of many silver and bronze medals. You must go for gold and aim for the top on the medal table at the Ogun Games.”

To boost morale, the governor promised monetary rewards: gold medalists will receive N750,000, silver medalists N150,000, and bronze medalists N50,000.

Coach Osamwonyi John, speaking on behalf of the contingent, thanked the state government for its support and promised that the team would make Edo proud.

Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, reminded the athletes to remain disciplined and remember they are representing the state.

The Edo contingent includes 612 athletes—324 males and 288 females—along with 60 coaches, 36 officials, and 66 state delegates.