Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, has clarified why Yewa (Ogun West) was not selected as a host region for the ongoing National Sports Festival, amid rising concerns over the apparent exclusion of the senatorial district.
Recall that there have been several reports that the senatorial district was left out of the games as Ogun East and Central hosted several games during the Gateway Games.
Addressing the issue during a media briefing, Isiaka stressed that the decision on venues was not made solely by the state government but was largely influenced by the Federal Ministry of Sports under the National Sports Commission.
“This is not a state sports festival. It is a national event, and the federal government plays a major role in determining the host locations,” he said.
He continued, “The idea that Yewa was excluded intentionally is simply not true. The process involved assessing available facilities and aligning with federal directives.”
He acknowledged that although the state presented five potential zones to host events, the federal authorities ultimately designated only two epicentres for logistical and infrastructural reasons.
“I’m also from Ogun West, and I understand the concerns. But it’s not political. It wasn’t a deliberate attempt to sideline any part of the state. The decision was made in line with what was seen as most practical and beneficial for the success of the festival,” Isiaka added.
The Commissioner emphasised that the state government remains committed to inclusive development and that efforts are ongoing to upgrade sports infrastructure across all regions, including Ogun West.
His comments come amid growing dissatisfaction from stakeholders and residents in Yewa, who argue that the region, with its sizable population and potential, deserves equal opportunity in statewide initiatives.
As the National Sports Festival continues, the Commissioner urged all regions in Ogun to come together in support of the event and celebrate the state’s role as host of one of Nigeria’s largest sporting spectacles.
