Scrabble, the cerebral game that has enticed many with its word-and-number attribute, has marked a milestone as it was streamed live, the first-ever at the 22nd National Sports Festival tagged ”Gateway Games 2024″ to a global audience.

Since the first word was made at the 2004 edition in Abuja, the game has kept its progress but lacked a live flow beyond the audience outside the borders.

Twenty-one years later, a threshold was crossed as 24 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja, assembled at the Multi-purpose hall of the Remo Stars Sports Complex for what has been termed  the biggest Olympics in Africa to joust for honour, medals and expected cash rewards across 12 categories.

Host Association, Ogun State Scrabble led by Adekoyejo Adegbesan who also wears a dual hat as the continent’s president at the Pan African Scrabble Association (PANASA) with Olobatoke Aka Nigeria Federation President under the Local Organising Committee (LOC) knew the significant role scrabble would play in satisfying thousands of interest who clings to their screens as a portal to witness the spectacles from the quiet town of Ikenne, one of the five host centres for the Games.

And the first play was made by current African champion Oluwatimilehin Doko on Table 1, a move followed by thousands of eyeballs who followed virtually.

This significant singular stroke has earned raving reactions as the National Sports Festival has been catapulted to a new high level.

” We as the host have pulled no stops in giving a great experience and feel to the National Sports Festival,” revealed an excited Adegbesan.

 “We are happy that this step has been taken for the development of Scrabble at this multi-sports event. Scrabble lovers and enthusiasts have followed the game both nationally and internationally. You can see how people even here have stayed glued to their devices, following keenly every action on Table.”

“Scrabble is growing and we as the hosts are glad to be able to create and add this experience to the 2024 Gateway Games.”

The experience will no doubt boost the profile and depth of the Games as 186 players from 24 states compete at the serene arena from May 23 to 27.

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Traditional leaders at the National Sports Festival, Delta State, have further extended their leadership on the medals table. After trailing behind Bayelsa State in the opening three days, Delta State restored the old order and took a narrow lead over Bayelsa on Friday.

But as at the close of events on Saturday, they have extended the gap significantly. Delta State have made a podium appearance 84 times as against 71 by Bayelsa.

Delta State’s 84 medals comprise 41 gold, 14 silver and 21 bronze medals.

The live medals table is HERE

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Participants at the 22nd National Sports Festival, Gateway Games 2024, have praised the robust security arrangements implemented across various venues in Ogun State.

From the bustling MKO Abiola Sports Arena to the vibrant Alake Sports Centre, security personnel were strategically stationed to safeguard both participants and property.

The seamless collaboration between the Nigerian Police and other security agencies was evident, contributing to a safe and orderly environment throughout the festival.

An official from a Northern state expressed satisfaction with the arrangements:

“I must commend Ogun State for the security setup. There hasn’t been a single reported case of theft at any of the venues. Teams are even escorted by security personnel late at night after events. For many of us coming from the North, this level of organization is impressive. It’s the kind of standard we should expect at every National Sports Festival.”

An athlete, who preferred to remain anonymous, also shared her positive experience:

“I’m genuinely impressed by how approachable and helpful the security personnel have been. They treat us with respect, regardless of where we’re from. It made me wonder if they received special training for this event. The peaceful atmosphere in Ogun is another big plus, you can move around freely without fear or harassment. I truly hope this sets a benchmark for Enugu, the next host state.”

The commendations reflect the organizers’ commitment to ensuring a secure and welcoming environment, reinforcing Ogun State’s reputation as a capable and hospitable host.

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