#Gateway Games update: Delta closes in on Bayelsa in thrilling NSF showdown

The race for supremacy at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival in Ogun State is heating up, with all 36 states and the FCT now officially on the medals table, marking a significant milestone as the festival enters its fifth day.

Delta State, the defending champions and traditional sports powerhouse, have significantly closed the gap on current leaders, Bayelsa State. With 31 gold, 11 silver, and 28 bronze medals, totaling 70, Delta is just one gold medal shy of reclaiming the top spot.

Bayelsa, who surged ahead earlier in the festival, maintain a narrow lead with 32 gold, 14 silver, and 15 bronze medals—61 in total—demonstrating that the battle for first place is far from over. The two South-South states continue to dominate proceedings, reaffirming the Niger Delta as the epicenter of Nigerian sports.

Rivers State remain in third position, albeit at a distance, with a medal haul of 15 gold, 11 silver, and 11 bronze—37 overall.

Meanwhile, hosts Ogun State are enjoying a steady climb up the rankings. Boosted by home support and familiar territory, they currently sit in fourth place with 10 gold, 12 silver, and 16 bronze medals. Hot on their heels is neighboring Oyo State in fifth place, signaling a competitive regional rivalry.

Lagos State, another festival heavyweight, is yet to hit top form and sits in sixth place as of the close of events on Thursday. Organizers and fans alike remain hopeful for a late surge from the Centre of Excellence.

The 22nd National Sports Festival, themed “Gateway Games Ogun 2025”, features over 10,000 athletes competing across 33 sports disciplines. Events are taking place at multiple venues including the MKO Abiola International Stadium, Sagamu Stadium, and Ijebu-Ode Arena, attracting massive crowds and showcasing emerging talents.

As the festival continues, all eyes are on the top contenders, with Delta poised to potentially overtake Bayelsa in what promises to be a dramatic weekend of sporting excellence.

[Follow the live medals table here.]

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