Head Coach Shola Sekoni is at the heart of Ogun State’s impressive run in the female handball category at the Gateway Games 2024, as his team secured a 24–19 semi-final victory over Kogi State to advance to the final of the National Sports Festival.
Playing at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, the Ogun side showcased tactical discipline and determination—qualities that have become hallmarks of Coach Sekoni’s leadership.
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The win was Ogun’s second over Kogi in the tournament, having previously beaten them in the group stage.
“I feel so great. We’re coming gradually,” Sekoni said after the match. “The players gave me 75 percent today, and I’m sure the remaining percentage will be added in the final.”
Sekoni also credited the support of the state government, revealing that the timely intervention and encouragement from Governor Dapo Abiodun played a key role in keeping the players motivated.
“The players were motivated by the gesture of Gov. Dapo Abiodun. He paid all the arrears and also made promises the players are looking forward to,” Sekoni stated.
Under Sekoni’s guidance, Ogun has now defeated strong sides including Kogi, Plateau, and Delta States to reach the final.
His calm confidence and attention to detail have earned him praise not just from players but from sports followers in the state.
One of the team’s standout performers, Abdulrasaq Idowu, also voiced optimism for the final and joined her coach in calling for more investment in handball development across Nigeria.
“If government at all levels can organise more competitions—local government, school, inter-state, national and international—it will go a long way in encouraging more youths to fall in love with handball,” she said.
With Coach Sekoni at the helm, Team Ogun is just one step away from gold, and the final promises to be a defining moment for a team that has grown in strength and confidence throughout the tournament.
