Gateway Games 2024: Scattered venues hampering athletes’ performance, state  sports commission boss laments

The Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bola Mogaji, has raised concerns over the logistical challenges posed by the dispersed nature of venues at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking to journalists at the Alake Sports Centre, Coach Mogaji noted that while Ogun State has made commendable strides in upgrading its sports infrastructure, the wide spread of event locations—ranging from Babcock University to Remo Stars Stadium and MKO Abiola Stadium—is negatively impacting athletes’ performances.

“The long distance between venues is affecting the performance of athletes. It’s difficult to manage logistics and ensure full participation,” Mogaji said.

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.

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