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By Solomon Nwoke, Abeokuta
Delta, the perennial winners of the National Sports Festival (NSF) has won again, this year’s edition of the festival making a record of 7th time.
Team Delta, according to the official medals table released at midday yesterday won the festival with a total of 271 medals made up of 109 gold,75 silver and 87 bronze medals. Arch rivals, Bayelsa state occupied the second position with a total of 193 medals comprising 80 gold, 54 silver and 59 bronze medals.
Hosts state, Ogun placed third with 69 gold, 58 silver and 62 bronze with a total of 187 medals. Team Rivers are fourth with 65 gold, 47 silver and 53 bronze with a total of 165 medals. Edo occupied the fifth place 55 gold, 87 silver and 93 bronze and a total of 235 medals. Team Oyo are sixth with a total of 107 medals made up of 33 gold, 32 silver and 42 bronze while Lagos, the seat of excellence are seventh with a total of 131 made up of 24 gold, 37 silver and 70 bronze.
This year’s festival was more than just a contest for medals—it was a statement of intent. Young talents, particularly from the Invited Junior Athletes (IJA) representing the symbolic 38th “state,” stunned fans and opponents by clinching surprise medals. Their performances highlighted the importance of investing in grassroots and youth sports development.
Across all sports, new records were set, rivalries renewed, and future stars born—making this edition a landmark in Nigeria’s sporting journey.
The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dilko, commended the Federal Government and the Ogun State Government for delivering a truly world-class event.
“Our deepest appreciation goes to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, for his unwavering commitment to sports development, and to Governor Dapo Abiodun—posterity will remember his role in this achievement,” Dilko said.
Hon. Bukola Olopade, NSC Director-General and head of the organizing committee, lauded the collective effort behind the scenes.
“From committee members to athletes, media, and technical officials—this success belongs to everyone. We are not perfect, but we are evolving and laying the groundwork for a brighter future,” he said.
The table at the time of filing this report showed that a total of 1,724 medals have so far been won.The NSF is a biennial multi-sport event organised by the Federal Government.It brings together athletes from all 36 states and the FCT to compete in various sports, promoting national unity, sportsmanship, and excellence across Nigeria.
