Two Lagos State officials remain hospitalized while others have been discharged following a road accident on their way to Abeokuta, Ogun State, for the 22nd National Sports Festival, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.
The accident occurred on Friday along the Lagos-Abeokuta Expressway. Fortunately, there were no fatalities.
Travih Nunayon, Technical Director of Sports at the Lagos State Sports Commission, confirmed the quick treatment of the officials involved. “Yes, there were a few injuries, but most have been treated and discharged. Only two are still receiving care,” he said.
Team Lagos, comprising 750 athletes, arrived in Abeokuta on Friday. Their general captain, Olowo Adewale, expressed confidence that the accident would not affect the team’s performance. “It’s not serious. We thank God the affected members are stable and receiving medical attention,” Adewale said. “Lagos is known for bringing their A-game, and when the festival begins, everyone will see that.”
The 22nd National Sports Festival, known as Gateway Games 2024, kicked off with the arrival of participating states on Friday. The opening ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, May 18, and the event will run until May 30.
Over 15,000 athletes are expected to compete across individual and team sports, with a total of 2,150 medals to be awarded in 549 events. The festival, Nigeria’s version of the Olympics, will be among the largest in its history, featuring 626 gold, 626 silver, and 898 bronze medals.
Events will take place across multiple venues, including Abeokuta, Ikenne, Sagamu, and Ijebu-Ode.
A key addition to NSF 2024 is the Invited Junior Athletes category, which allows junior athletes to compete alongside experienced competitors, providing a platform for young talent to shine on a national stage.
