By Ikenna Nwokedi
The Chairman Games Village Management and a member of the Main Organizing Committee (MOC) of the ongoing 21st edition of the National Sports Festival (NSF) tagged ‘Delta 2022’, Dr. Ademola Are has showered encomiums on the Government of Delta State for the work done in ensuring the successful hosting of Nigeria’s version of the Olympic Games.
Are made the remarks during an interview with sports writers at Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba on Monday, 5th December 2022.
Are, the President of Rugby Federation of Nigeria, rated the festival high judging by what has been put in place by the Delta State Government thus far at the ongoing festival.
The sports administrator pointed out that although there are challenges, it is almost impossible for crisis not to raise its ugly head in a sporting event as huge as that of the National Sports Festival.
“I have been involved in organizing competitions of this magnitude in the past and by my experience over the years and judging by what I have seen here, Delta State has done well so far in what they have put in place hosting the festival”,
“Although there are variables in determining the success story at the festival however we have to acknowledge that there are challenges but the host has done well in tackling the issues,” Are said.
Are however advised prospective host of the upcoming editions of the Festival to put a Games Village in place that will accommodate all stakeholders who are involved in the game such as athletes, team officials and others instrumental to the course of the game.
He admonished athletes to ensure they remain focused, committed and stay away from negative vices such as doping during the course of engaging in their events at the sports festival.
The 21st edition of the NSF will run from November 28 to December 10, 2022, according to feelers from the situation room at the Festival, Delta State is currently on top of the medal’s table.
