Oyo State athletes have staged a protest against the Oyo State Sports Council over what they described as poor welfare, inadequate support and alleged neglect by the state government.
Sports247 reports that the athletes on Monday blocked the entrances to the stadium hosting the South West Zonal Elimination events for the 2026 National Sports Festival, bringing activities at the venue to a standstill.
The protest bears similarities to the action taken by athletes from neighbouring Ogun State during the 2025 National Sports Festival, when athletes raised concerns over welfare and conditions surrounding their participation.
The Oyo athletes are demanding the immediate intervention of Governor Seyi Makinde, insisting that their grievances must be addressed directly by the governor.
Their decision to shut the stadium gates has prevented athletes and officials from other South West states from gaining access to the facility, forcing a delay in the commencement of the zonal elimination events.
The situation has reportedly generated tension at the venue, with athletes maintaining their position that the gates will remain closed until their concerns are addressed.
The protesting athletes are seeking clarity and action on issues surrounding their welfare, with the development once again putting the spotlight on the conditions under which Nigerian athletes prepare and compete for major competitions.
The South West zonal elimination is an important stage in the build-up to the 2026 National Sports Festival, as athletes from the region battle for qualification and representation at the national event.
However, the ongoing protest has now disrupted the scheduled programme, leaving athletes and officials from participating states waiting for a resolution.
As of the time of filing this report, the athletes remain adamant in their demand to meet Governor Makinde, while the stadium remains inaccessible for the scheduled activities.
The latest development adds to growing concerns over athlete welfare in Nigerian sports and raises questions about the preparedness of states to adequately support athletes ahead of major national competitions.
