Delta retain 19th NSF title as closing ceremony lit up Abuja

Following the conclusion of the 19th NSF games which has brighten many faces and increased many athletes as well as newly discovered talents in the capital city, Abuja; with a mouth-watering closing ceremony at the main bowl, staging several musical artist.

Notably, the colorful event has a wonderful turn out compare to the opening event but Funbi, Dutse Government dancers, CDQ, Conceptual Cultural Exhibitors, Skales, Small Doctor, Seyi-Shay and ace comedian Omotunde Lolo, famous presenter Ignis Ama added spice to the cake.
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Sadly, athletes representing Bayelsa state had to staged a protest during the closing ceremony of the 19th National Sports Festival. The athletes carried placards with different inscriptions expressing their anger towards the state government for the ill treatment meted out to them.

However, team Edo graced the tracks for the closing ceremony not only with style but also for the culture, they are currently placed 3rd on the medals table with a total of 141 medals 47 gold, 41 silver, 53 bronze likely to host 2020 NSF.

Fascinating moment during the 4x100m Mixed Relay, representing Akwa Ibom are Peace Uko, Nsikak Anthony Akpan, Mercy Ntia-Obong & Shedrack Akpeki eventually passed round the baton to emerging 1st position at 41.27s. Although, Igube assisted (Anambra) to claim Silver medal, while Margaret Etim (Ondo) was placed 3rd position.

Dignitaries that graced the program are (Dr.) Sen. Ifeanyi Okowa (Delta State Governor), Engr. Abu Gumel (IOC member & NOC president), His Excellency Godwin Obaseki (Edo State Governor) and former APC national chairman (Chief.) Odigie Oyegun alongside the Sports Ministry/ NSF organizers.
Eventually, the hosting right has been given to the former bendel state who has been privileged to host the NSF championship twice, also Edo state has emerged 3rd overall medal table.
Historically, the following has increased Sports through their enthusiasm. Delta State Governor Okowa: Athletics development in Nigeria.

Rivers State Governor Wike : Wrestling development in Nigeria.
Lagos State Governor Akinwunmi Ambode : International Sports Tourism.
Edo state governor while speaking to news men, "We are back to Sports, because we have to renovate our facilities.

Of course, Edo has intention to dominate next edition as well as improve our athletes welfare in readiness for All Africa Game and Olympics is our priorities" he added.
Adding, our target is to return to Sports podium as we look forward to compete with all our athletes Obaseki concluded.

Barr. Solomon Selcap Dalung during his speech, "Encouraged the athletes to continue the spirit of sportsmanship, thanking everyone for coming and expressed his intentions towards Sports development in the country.

In summary, defending champions Delta won total of 352 medals; neighboring Rivers claim 2nd position with 194 medals, Edo cliched 3rd with 141 medals while Lagos and Bayelsa occupied 4th and 5th position.