The Dapo Abiodun, Governor of Ogun State, has approved cash rewards totalling over ₦450 million for athletes and officials of Team Ogun following the state’s impressive outing at the just-concluded National Sports Festival.

The governor announced the approval on Monday during a cash award ceremony organised in honour of the medalists, noting that Ogun State finished second overall with 239 medals, its best performance in the history of the festival.

Abiodun described the achievement as a clear indication of the steady growth of sports development in the state, stressing that his administration remains committed to recognising and rewarding excellence.

He disclosed that all training allowances, participation allowances and contractual fees owed to athletes and officials had been fully settled.

According to him, the immediate cash rewards earlier promised during his visit to the athletes’ camp were promptly fulfilled, including ₦50,000 paid to every qualified athlete and instant bonuses for medal winners before the festival’s closing ceremony.

The governor announced a historic reward package for medalists, comprising ₦2.5 million each for 93 gold medalists, ₦1.5 million each for 61 silver medalists, and ₦1 million each for 81 bronze medalists.

He added that additional financial provisions were approved for athletes in team sports to acknowledge their collective contributions.

Abiodun said the gesture was aimed at motivating athletes and encouraging young people across the state to embrace sports as a viable career path.

He also approved special financial support for technical officials, announcing ₦10 million for coaches through the Director of Coaching and ₦14.8 million for participating officials through the Director of Administration and Supply.

The governor commended the coaches and officials for their discipline, mentorship and professionalism, describing them as critical to Team Ogun’s success.

Abiodun highlighted the transformation of the sports sector in Ogun State, citing increased hosting of international competitions, improved sporting infrastructure, and greater utilisation of facilities by national teams and leagues.