• Athletes excel at National Athletics Masters tourney
By Ogalla Daniel
Kogi State Government has reaffirmed it’s commitment to the renovation and upgrade of critical sports facilities as part of efforts tailored towards improving the fortunes of athletes and sports in the state.

Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Aridaojo Anyebe, made the pledge while receiving the athletes who did the state proud at the just concluded maiden Nigerian Athletics Masters National Championship.
The championship, held from May 1 to May 3, 2026, at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, witnessed strong participation from athletes across the country, marking a significant milestone for athletics veterans.

At the end of the competition, Team Kogi secured a total of 4 gold, 5 silver, and 2 bronze medals, placing it firmly among the top-performing teams at the national event.
Reacting to the achievement, Hon. Anyebe, commended the athletes for their outstanding display of competitive excellence.
He described the achievement as inspiring and a testament to the rising status of Kogi Sports as well as the enduring spirit of her athletes.

The sports commissioner used the occasion to reaffirm the State Government’s commitment to the renovation and upgrade of critical sports facilities while urging athletes not to be discouraged by the current facility challenges.
According to him, the upgrade of sports facilities was part of a broader strategy to rejuvenate Kogi sports sector, elevate athletic performance and restore the state to it’s glorious days of winning sporting events.
He further acknowledged that the sports sector was witnessing a rise in achievements and participation in sporting events under the Governor Ododo led administration and called for the support of all stakeholders.
While encouraging the sports athletes and lovers to keep hope alive, the commissioner stated that the ministry under his watch, will continue to play its role of executing governments plans for the sector.
He then congratulated the veterans for winning medals and bringing glory to the state at the championship.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Momoh Stephen, applauded members of the team for their outstanding performance at the games , just as he emphasised the need to always publicize the achievements of the state’s athletes in sporting events.
Highlight of the event was the presentation of the athletes and medals to the commissioner by the Director, Kogi State Sports Council, Mr. James Igah

