Twenty-two-year-old George Iniobong of Team Benue secured a silver medal in the -60kg Men’s Judo category at the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival (NSF) in Abeokuta yesterday.
With this latest achievement, Benue State has now amassed a total of two silver and seven bronze medals at the festival.
Despite his impressive performance throughout the competition, Iniobong was ultimately bested by his opponent from the host team in the final minutes of the match.
Speaking to journalists shortly after his bout, the silver medallist extended his gratitude to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia for enabling him and fellow athletes to compete in the Gateway Games.
Reflecting on his aspirations, Iniobong expressed disappointment over not clinching the gold medal as he had hoped but remained optimistic for future opportunities. “I always aim to win gold medals for my state,” he said. “I am further encouraged by this experience and I vow to give my all for Benue when the next opportunity arises.”
He also thanked Governor Alia, the Commissioner for Sports, his coaches, and his family for their unwavering support, which he credits for his success thus far.
In a related development, Ukpe Augustina Ime won a bronze medal in the +70kg kickboxing category.
The National Sports Festival is a biennial multi-sport event organised by the Federal Government, bringing together athletes from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete in various sports while fostering national unity and excellence throughout Nigeria.
