Abeokuta, Ogun State – The momentum is electric, and Team Bayelsa continues to set the pace at the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) — tagged the Gateway Games — currently underway in Abeokuta, Ogun State. After four days of thrilling competition, the Prosperity State remains firmly atop the official medal table, reaffirming its title contention.
As of the close of Day Four, Bayelsa has amassed a commanding 27 medals, consisting of:
- 🥇 16 Gold
- 🥈 6 Silver
- 🥉 5 Bronze
Chasing Pack Tightens
While Bayelsa leads the charge, other states are closing in fast:
- Delta State surged to 2nd place with 10 gold, 5 silver, and 6 bronze — a major leap from Day Three.
- Osun State occupies the 3rd spot with 6 gold, 1 silver, trailed closely by Rivers State in 4th (5 gold, 3 silver, 4 bronze).
- Lagos State rounds out the top five with 4 gold, 7 silver, and 10 bronze, followed by Oyo in 6th, Akwa Ibom in 7th, and Plateau in 8th.
Cross River, the Day One leader, has now slipped to 9th, while Edo State completes the top 10 — despite a modest 2 golds, their 15 silver and 16 bronze medals underline their consistency.
Bayelsa Athletes Power the Push
Team Bayelsa’s grip on the top was strengthened by Lucky Joseph, who delivered a triple gold haul in the +109kg weightlifting class.
The duo of Samuel Mason and Kyogen Philip claimed gold in men’s doubles, while Sanusi Abdulfathi added another gold in taekwondo.
Meanwhile, Member Florence settled for silver, and Peter Oyakemeagbegha continued his impressive run with gold in the 56kg Kung-Fu Sanshou category.
What’s Next?
With several events still to be decided, and powerhouse states like Delta, Rivers, and Lagos breathing down their necks, Bayelsa’s lead is far from secure. But for now, the Prosperity Boys and Girls remain the team to beat at the Gateway Games.
