Senator Ned Nwoko, representing Delta North and serving as Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria, has praised Team Delta for securing their fifth straight victory at the 2024 Gateway Games — Nigeria’s National Sports Festival — which concluded on Thursday.
The multi-sport event featured over 10,000 athletes competing in 549 events, showcasing the strength and diversity of Nigerian sporting talent. Team Delta once again topped the medal chart with a commanding haul of 98 gold, 66 silver, and 80 bronze medals, well ahead of runners-up Bayelsa and Ogun States.
Senator Nwoko applauded the athletes’ efforts, describing their performance as a reflection of Nigeria’s untapped sporting potential and the tenacity of its youth.
“Our young athletes have shown that this country is rich in talent,” Nwoko said. “But talent alone isn’t enough. We must identify, support, and develop these athletes long before competitions arrive.”
He stressed the need for a shift in Nigeria’s approach to sports development, advocating for consistent, structured training programs and early talent discovery as key to international success.
“It’s not enough to win nationally — our sights should be set globally. That requires serious investment in preparation, not last-minute efforts,” he added.
In his role as Chancellor of the Sports University of Nigeria, Nwoko reiterated the institution’s mission to become a center for sports innovation, education, and excellence.
“Our university stands ready to support the next generation of athletes, coaches, and sports professionals. We’re not just celebrating champions — we’re committed to creating them,” he said.
He also urged sports administrators nationwide to adopt a more strategic, grassroots-driven approach to grooming future champions, noting that Nigeria’s long-term success in sports depends on sustainable talent development frameworks.
