National Sports Festival: Port Harcourt Bubbles As Games Begin

The city of Port-Harcourt has come alive with the arrival of over 30 teams. The 17 th edition of the national Sports Festival tagged Garden Games has commenced today with most of the states battling in the indoor competitions.

The arrival of athletes from all over the country has sparked excitement among the locals who are hoping to make the most out of the Games.

Lagos, Oyo, Ogun, Kano, Bayelsa, Abia, Anambra and other states expressed optimism at bettering their records at the KADA Games in 2009.

The Local Organising Committee, LOC, has ensured that the accommodation and transportation of athletes and officials are priority so far. The logistics and organisation of the festival haves been rated top class by athletes, some of whom have been to some of the stadia hosting some of the Games.

Security have also been beefed up in the state, with over 10,000 police officers drafted into Port Harcourt to ensure compliance of law and order as well as safety of lives and properties. The policemen have been designated to virtually every part of the oil rich city.

Despite heavy rainfall in Port Harcourt, the organisers are optimistic that the rain will not affect the Games. While the indoor games will not be interrupted at all, some of the outdoor games might be postponed for a few hours to enable athletes compete under favourable condition.

Many athletes have expressed optimism at winning laurels as the Games gain momentum. With the influx of micro businesses, the indigenes of Rivers State are savouring of minute of the festival that promises to be a good one.

—Seun Bisuga