By Yakubu Muhammad
The Ogun Gateway Games 2024 have been a spectacle of elite sportsmanship, with athletes and fans witnessing thrilling performances from participating states. Among the standout contenders, Bayelsa State has emerged as a force to be reckoned with, currently sitting second on the medal table.
Speaking at the Alake Sports Centre in Abeokuta, Mr. Ama-Ebi Stow Ebikpolade, Chairman of the Bayelsa State Table Tennis Association and South-South Representative on the Nigeria Table Tennis Federation Board, expressed confidence in his state’s prospects at the games.
“All I can say is that my athletes are up there with the best,” Ebikpolade stated. “When the games get into full gear, we’ll see just how many medals we can bring home.”
Bayelsa’s success is rooted in the depth and talent of its squad, particularly in table tennis, a sport where the state has made remarkable strides.
As of the time of filing this report, Bayelsa has secured 33 gold, 25 silver, and 25 bronze medals, maintaining pressure on the current leaders, Delta State. With several key events still ahead—including Bayelsa’s strongholds like wrestling and taekwondo—expectations are high for a final surge that could see the state climb to the top spot.
The atmosphere in the Bayelsa camp remains charged with optimism, and if Ebikpolade’s words are any indication, the best is yet to come for Team Bayelsa at the Ogun Gateway Games 2024.
