Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, on Friday, doled out cash rewards to athletes of the state for their impressive performance at the 13th African Games in Accra and other competitions this year, Saturday PUNCH reports.
The Ogun State Ministry of Sports Development in conjunction with Ogun State Sports Council under the directives of Abiodun appreciated Team Ogun athletes with cash prizes during the mid-year sporting activities.
The event which took place at Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta saw Ogun athletes who won medals for the state both at national and international levels given special reception and cash prizes.
The cash prizes of N500,000 each were given to the gold medalist, N300,000 for the silver and the bronze medalists were given N250,000 each.
Coaches and the athletes who participated without medals were also given N150,000 each.
Tobi Amusan, who was represented by her mother, and others like Dorcas Adesokan, Adebisi Adekanbi, Joy Ola, Onyebuchi Chisom, and Sagari John were among the athletes who benefited from the cash flow.
Speaking at the event, Honourable Commissioner for Sports in the state, Wasiu Isiaka, who represented Abiodun, commended the athletes while urging them to keep up the good work.
“I am convinced that celebrating the incredible achievements of our talented athletes and expressing our gratitude to them for making Ogun State proud on both national and international stages will not only boost their morale but will also inspire others to put in their best since they know that it’s now a tradition from His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun CON to reward hard-working and excellence,” he said.
“The 13th African Games saw an impressive display of talent and dedication from athletes across the continent. Consequently, among them, a group of exceptional individuals stood out. Their hard work and perseverance culminated in the ultimate recognition, which the medals symbolize. These athletes have made their countries proud, inspiring a new generation of sports enthusiasts and cementing their places in history.
“To our own Ogun Athletes who made the list of TEAM NIGERIA at the 13th African Games in Accra Ghana, your dedication and perseverance have paid off, and your names will go down in history as champions. You have proven that, with hard work and determination, anything is possible. Your achievements will continue to inspire a new generation of athletes, and your legacy will live on for years to come.”
