Overview
The Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria proudly featured Ayo, one of Nigeria’s heritage sports, at the 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) in Ogun State. This deeply cultural game, often referred to as African Mancala, witnessed intense competition among the best players from various states, bringing strategy, skill, and tradition to the forefront of the festival.
Medal Standings & Top Performers
Men’s Double Event
🏆 Gold: Azer Samuel Mfon & Kyogen Philips (Bayelsa)
🥈 Silver: Paave Aodoakaa & Cyprian Akuanochie (Edo)
🥉 1st Bronze: Alyedun Seun & Ogunwule Stephen (Oyo)
🥉 2nd Bronze: Ajayi Akinkunmi & Femni Julius Ajani (Delta)
Women’s Double Event
🏆 Gold: Terlim Sechiver & Ikyerkyaa I. (FCT)
🥈 Silver: Oyetunde Toyin B. & Lawal Adorenke R. (Oyo)
🥉 1st Bronze: Yaya Omolara K. & Ajayi Omolara R. (Ekiti)
🥉 2nd Bronze: Odekunle Ojedele F. & Shokunbi Alimot A. (Ogun)
Mixed Double Event
🏆 Gold: Azer Samuel Mson & Odoko Pamela (Bayelsa)
🥈 Silver: Akanbi Rasheed Iko & Abur Elizabeth T. (Rivers)
🥉 1st Bronze: Paave Aodoakaa & Iweokhai Bosede (Edo)
🥉 2nd Bronze: Aiyedun Seun A. & Oyetunde Toyin B. (Oyo)
Women’s Singles Event
🏆 Gold: Blessing Emmanuel (Akwa Ibom)
🥈 Silver: Elizabeth Abur (Rivers)
🥉 1st Bronze: Yaya Omolara (Ekiti)
🥉 2nd Bronze: Odoko Pamela (Bayelsa)
Men’s Singles Event
🏆 Gold: Jato Yima (FCT)
🥈 Silver: Vancor Ben Richard (Akwa Ibom)
🥉 1st Bronze: Azer Samuel Mson (Bayelsa)
🥉 2nd Bronze: Cyprian Akuanochie (Edo)
Ayo’s Cultural Significance & Competitive Spirit
Ayo, a game of intellect and strategy, has long been an integral part of Nigerian heritage, fostering mental agility and critical thinking. At NSF Ogun 2024, players displayed remarkable skills, proving that this traditional sport remains relevant in modern sporting culture.
States like Bayelsa, FCT, and Akwa Ibom showcased their dominance in different categories, emphasizing their strong presence in the Ayo community. The event was filled with thrilling moments, as competitors engaged in high-stakes battles, reflecting the deep cultural essence of Ayo.
Future Prospects & Development Plans
As Ayo continues to gain prominence, the Traditional Sports Federation of Nigeria (TSFN) is committed to further developing the sport:
🏆 Expansion in Schools & Local Competitions: Encouraging Ayo inclusion in school sporting programs to train future champions.
🌍 National & International Promotion: Strengthening the visibility of Ayo at continental and global events, increasing Nigeria’s representation in traditional sports leagues.
🔎 Talent Development: Establishing training academies to nurture young players, ensuring a pipeline of talent for future tournaments.
🏁 Preparation for Upcoming Events: Identifying top performers from NSF Ogun 2024 for advanced coaching ahead of the next National Sports Festival and potential international showcases.
Conclusion
The Ayo event at NSF Ogun 2024 was a resounding success, blending competition, culture, and strategy. As the sport continues to gain momentum, its rich heritage and competitive nature remain a vital part of Nigeria’s sporting identity.
Get the full copy of the event from the Traditional Sports Federation here.
