Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has rewarded state medallists at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, with cash prizes.

At the ceremony held on Friday in Ilorin, gold medallists got N1 million, silver medallists N500,000, while bronze medallists got N300,000 each.

In the same vein, coaches and secretaries of the team Kwara also got a cash reward of N500,000.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr AbdulRazaq said the gesture was to acknowledge, celebrate, and reassure the athletes that the state and its people appreciate them, and will continue to honour their commitments to the state.

The governor said, “This gathering is symbolic in many ways. It is a show of gratitude to all our athletes who won medals at the 2024 National Sports Festival in Ogun State. For us, these athletes are our heroes and heroines in their own rights. With six gold, 11 silver, and 12 bronze medals, these athletes have made us proud, and we are proud of their efforts, exploits, and, above all, patriotism. Second, we have organised this to acknowledge, celebrate, and reassure these athletes and future champions that the state and its people appreciate them. Nothing can compensate for your efforts, but history will remember how you deployed your talents and energy to bring honour to our state.’’

In a related development, Mr AbdulRazaq also announced the full payment of outstanding N201 million sign-on fees for Kwara United coaches and players dating back to 16 years ago.

He said this underscored the commitment to the welfare of all, including athletes and coaches.

He added that his administration has done a lot to reposition Kwara in all spheres, by upgrading several sporting facilities and building new ones.

He stated, “Some of these facilities are unique to Kwara in Nigeria and on the African continent. We have also tried to put our teams in top shape and these efforts are paying off already as the recent historic victory of Kwara United Football Club shows. Our strategic purpose is to ensure that Kwara is the number one hub for raising talents and deploying same for national development and shared prosperity.’’

The Executive Chairman, National Sports Commission, Bola Mogaji, commended the governor for bringing drastic changes to sports since the inception of the administration.

He said the upgrading of facilities made Kwara State an athlete producing state as they hardly have competition drought, even in less popular sports.

Kwara finished 14th on the log having won six gold, 11 silver and 12 bronze medals.

(NAN)