The ongoing Gateway Games 2024 at Babcock University witnessed disruption as a group of athletes staged a protest over the non-payment of their allowances. Frustrated by delayed payments, the athletes blocked the main entrance to the Games Village, drawing attention to their grievances and halting access for participants and officials.
The protest highlights ongoing challenges within sports event management in Nigeria, where promised welfare packages for athletes sometimes face delays, affecting morale and performance.
Organizers have been urged to address the issue promptly to restore order and ensure the successful continuation of the Games, which serve as a crucial platform for discovering and nurturing young sporting talents.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of timely support and transparent management in sports administration to uphold athletes’ welfare and maintain the integrity of national sporting events.
