Bayelsa State has surged ahead in the medal rankings at the ongoing 2024 National Sports Festival, which is being hosted across various venues in Ogun State, including the state capital, Abeokuta.
As of the latest tally, Bayelsa has secured a total of nine medals—comprising six gold, two silver, and one bronze—placing them at the top of the standings.
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Oyo State currently trails behind in second place, having earned one gold, one silver, and one bronze. Lagos State follows in third with three gold, four silver, and three bronze medals.
After initially topping the leaderboard on Day 2, Cross River State has slipped to fourth, maintaining their three gold medals without any additional podium finishes.
Rivers State rounds out the top five, boasting two gold, three silver, and one bronze medal.
Interestingly, the Invited Junior Athletes—recognized as the unofficial “38th state” of the festival—are making a notable impact, occupying sixth place with two golds, one silver, and one bronze.
Defending champions Delta State, who have dominated the previous four editions of the festival, are yet to find their rhythm. They currently sit in seventh position with a modest haul of one gold, one silver, and one bronze.
A total of 71 medals have been awarded so far: 23 gold, 23 silver, and 25 bronze.The medal hunt intensifies on Wednesday with key competitions in weightlifting, women’s badminton, squash, and more.
Meanwhile, new events such as swimming and tennis are set to begin at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex, while gymnastics and volleyball kick off at the Alake Sports Complex.
