By Yakubu Muhammad
The ongoing Ogun Gateway Games 2024 have delivered thrilling moments for athletes and fans alike, with several states putting on spectacular performances. Among them, Bayelsa State has emerged as one of the standout contenders, currently sitting comfortably in second place on the medal table.
Speaking with sports journalists at the Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta, Mr. Ama-Ebi Stow Ebikpolade—the Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association and South-South Representative on the Board of the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation—expressed high optimism about the state’s prospects.
“All I can say is that my athletes are up there with the best,” he said confidently. “When the games get into full gear, we’ll see just how many medals we can bring home.”
Mr. Ebikpolade’s confidence is grounded in the depth and talent of Bayelsa’s team across various disciplines, particularly in table tennis, a sport where the state has made significant strides in recent years.
As of the time of filing this report, Bayelsa has secured 33 gold, 25 silver, and 25 bronze medals, firmly keeping the pressure on the current leaders, Delta State. With several key events still ahead, including Bayelsa’s strongholds like wrestling and taekwondo, expectations are high for a late surge that could see the state finish at the very top.
The spirit in the Bayelsa camp remains high, and if Mr. Ebikpolade’s words are anything to go by, the best is yet to come for Team Bayelsa.
