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Ebenezer Bajela.
After several agitations by concerned individuals, traditional sports and para-swimming have been included among the games for the 2022 National Sports Festival billed for Delta State.
The eventual inclusion was communicated to participating states through a circular signed by the secretary of the games’ accreditation sub-committee, Okere Emmanuel.
The traditional games include Ayo, Kokowa and Dambe.
“I am directed to inform all states Desk Officers that the following sports have been included in the 21st National Sports Festival “Delta 2022.
“Traditional Sports (Ayo, Kokowa, Damba) and Para Swimming,” the circular read.
According to the notice, states have till Wednesday, November 9 to register at least five male and female athletes each for the traditional games.
“In view of the above, you are advised to register your athletes online immediately, as the portal will be closed down on Wednesday, November 9, 2022.”
Agitations for the inclusion of traditional sports were the second to hit the 2022 games after para-athletes also staged a nationwide protest over their exclusion from the games before it was reversed by the National Council on Sports.
A joint technical meeting involving the Main Organising Committee, the Local Organising Committee and other stakeholders of the event have also taken place in Asaba after the inspection of facilities.
The 2022 National Sports Festival will be held in Delta State from November 28 till December 10.