Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has honored the state’s scrabble players and officials with cash rewards for their outstanding performances at the delayed 2023 African Games held in Accra, Ghana.
The athletes, who were part of Team Nigeria, received their accolades during a ceremony at the State Sports Council in Ijeja, Abeokuta.
In a grand gesture of appreciation, Governor Abiodun awarded ₦500,000 each to gold medalists, ₦350,000 to silver medalists, and ₦250,000 to bronze medalists. Coaches and athletes who did not secure podium finishes were also recognized with ₦150,000 each. This event was part of Ogun State’s Mid-Year Sporting Activities Report and underscored the Governor’s commitment to promoting sports and rewarding excellence.
Among the celebrated athletes was Adebisi Adekansi, who made history by becoming the first Nigerian to win two gold medals in scrabble at the African Games. Adekansi clinched the top medal in the Women’s Single event and, alongside fellow Ogun State player Joy Ola, helped Nigeria secure gold in the Women’s Team Event. Both Adekansi and Ola, along with Jimoh Abdumumin and their head coach Bukunmi Afolayan, received significant recognition for their achievements.
Governor Abiodun’s administration has consistently supported and rewarded sports talent. This latest round of accolades follows previous financial rewards extended to medalists from the 2022 National Sports Festival held in Asaba, Delta State. The Commissioner of Sports, Isiaka Wasiu, who represented the Governor at the event, praised the athletes for their dedication and success, emphasizing the state’s pride in their contributions to Team Nigeria’s overall medal haul of 121 at the Games.
Wasiu stated, “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.”
Governor Abiodun’s ongoing efforts to reposition sports in Ogun State and his financial support for athletes underscore a commitment to fostering a thriving sports culture in the region. The recognition of these athletes’ efforts is a testament to their hard work and the Governor’s dedication to celebrating and encouraging sports excellence in Ogun State.
