Weightlifter Abayomi Adeleye secured Ekiti State’s first medal at the ongoing National Sports Festival in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Monday.
Competing in the 55kg weight class, Adeleye clinched a bronze medal to officially place Ekiti on the festival’s medal table. Speaking after his podium finish, the athlete expressed pride in his performance and expressed hope that his achievement would inspire other members of the team to aim higher.
“I’m proud to win this medal for Ekiti. I believe it will motivate my teammates to go all out and win more for the state,” Adeleye said.
Dr. Olusola Osetoba, Technical Advisor to Governor Biodun Oyebanji on Sports Development, praised Adeleye’s performance and described it as an encouraging sign for the rest of the competition.
“This bronze medal is a positive sign,” she noted. “It proves that Ekiti is not in Ogun State just to participate but to compete seriously. I urge all our athletes to take inspiration from Adeleye and aim for podium finishes in their events.”
She also reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting and encouraging the athletes throughout the festival.
The Ekiti State contingent had earlier participated in the festival’s lively opening ceremony on Sunday at the MKO Abiola Sports Complex in Abeokuta. As the National Sports Festival enters its fifth day, various events continue to unfold across different venues in the host state.