Team Rivers are in no way ready to relinquish their leadership position on the log table of the 17th National Sports Festival. From day one, the contingent and their field marshals have continued to set the pace winning medals to let other states play catch-ups.

Though the medals table are fluctuating because of results that stream in and change the tide, Rivers as at the time of this report are 10 medals away from its closest rival, Delta State who are the defending champions of the Sports Festival.

Rivers have 29 gold, 11 silver and 11 bronze against Delta’s 19 gold, 21 silver and 19 bronze. It no doubt shows that they have taken unassailable lead and might lead from beginning to end of the festival. Information Commissioner, Mrs Ibim Semenitari said that things are working according to plans.

“Our plan is to also go back to our Sports-loving Governor, Honourable Rotimi Amaechi to show him that not only did we excel with world facilities but that we are also the winners of the festival. We have worked so hard to deserve to win. Our athletes and coaches are determined to do that. And that will be the crowning glory of the festival”, the Commissioner who has shed weight in the cause of the festival said.

Akwa Ibom State are currently occupying the third position with 9 gold  and six bronze medals while Ondo and Edo are tied with four gold each in fourth and fifth positions respectively. The Centre of Excellence, Lagos State and host of the next Sports Festival is occupying the 7th position. The table may change as events continue.