The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, has expressed satisfaction with the quality of play in the handball competition at the ongoing National Sports Festival, tagged "Gateway Games 2024" in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Speaking after watching the men's handball match between Lagos State and Sokoto State at the Ake Sports Complex on Monday, Olopade praised the players for demonstrating integrity, maturity, and exhibiting the spirit of fair play throughout the competition.

"The players displayed integrity and maturity while they also exhibited the spirit of fair play," Olopade stated. "The standard of the game has improved tremendously."

The NSC Director General further highlighted the high expectations for the festival, which commenced on May 16 and is scheduled to conclude on May 30. He specifically mentioned the world-class opening ceremony that has become a reference point for athletes and spectators alike.

"The expectations of the festival are already high, a world-class opening ceremony that has become a reference point to every athlete and spectator. We have very good facilities across board, we expect natural talents to excel," he added.

Olopade confirmed that all 36 states of the federation, including the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, are participating in the tournament, with Benue being the last state to arrive at the Games.

Results from day one of the men's handball competition saw Niger defeat Kano 25-24, Lagos edge Sokoto 25-24, while Edo walked over Enugu.

The Gateway Games 2024 continues to showcase Nigeria's sporting talents across various disciplines as the competition progresses toward its conclusion at the end of the month.