2025 NSF: Ogun claims gold medal in football event

Posted : 28 May 2025

Team Ogun State has claimed the prestigious gold medal at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) after defeating Team Kwara 4-1 in the final played at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta.

However, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, has commended the state’s football team for their outstanding performance at the 22nd National Sports Festival – Gateway Games 2024 – where they secured a silver medal in the football event.

Despite the 4-1 loss to host state Team Ogun in the final match, Mogaji praised the players for their dedication, discipline, and resilience throughout the tournament.

“Don’t feel sad, guys — that is football for you,” Mogaji said, addressing the visibly emotional players after the final whistle.

“You’ve done exceptionally well to reach this stage. Playing against the host state is never easy, but everyone saw that you were the better team. You haven’t disappointed me, His Excellency Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, or the people of Kwara State.”

Mogaji described the team’s silver medal as a “victory in spirit and character,” noting that their journey to the final was a reflection of hard work and progress in Kwara's grassroots sports development.

Head Coach Ajewole Ezekiel expressed gratitude for the Chairman’s morale-boosting presence and leadership throughout the competition.

“Mallam Mogaji has given Kwara sports the visibility and national respect it deserves. His support has been unwavering, and we’re grateful,” Coach Ajewole said.

Assistant Coach Funsho Alamoyo echoed similar sentiments, calling Mogaji “a father figure” and a source of motivation for both athletes and officials.

“His leadership inspires us. We are determined to work even harder and make him and the state proud in future events,” Alamoyo added.

Coach Abdulkadir, reflecting on the entire tournament experience, described the National Sports Festival as a valuable learning curve and thanked the Sports Commission for providing the team with the opportunity to showcase their potential on such a large stage.

Despite the final result, Team Kwara’s silver medal in football remains a milestone, reinforcing the state’s rising influence in youth and competitive football circles. The players and coaching crew are now set to return to their academies and clubs across the state with renewed confidence and determination.

2025 NSF: Ogun claims gold medal in football event

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