Two rising stars from Ughelli Rovers Football Club, captain and goalkeeper Efe Bartholomew and star striker Udori Great, have both been named in Team Delta athletes for the ongoing 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed the “Gateway Games,” in Ogun State.
The National Sports Festival, which commenced in the Ogun State’s capital city of Abeokuta, becomes the epicenter of sports, unity, and national pride.
Hosting from May 16th to 30th, 2025, brings together over 15,000 athletes from across 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory to compete in 33 sports, showcasing talent, unity, and sportsmanship.
Efe Bartholomew and Great Udori’s selection is a testament to their outstanding performances at the club so far and at the recently concluded New Year Mega Lottery Nigeria Nationwide League (NLO) Division One 2025 Season in the Asaba Centre 1, held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Delta State.
This tournament, was where they played pivotal roles in propelling the Eguono V’Owvian Boys to a second-place finish for the first time in the club’s history, having ended in sixth position in their debut NLO 2024 campaign.
The Olomu-born shot-stopper, has been making waves under the guidance of head coach Ekete Nyerovwo, known for his brilliance between the sticks and tireless work rate, was one of the cornerstones of Ughelli Rovers throughout the season.
Meanwhile, the former Superb Rangers talisman, with his goal-scoring prowess and prolific flair has proven instrumental in the Ughelli Rovers’ attacking success since his addition to the club.
Their individual contributions helped the Ughelli-based side secure a commendable finish in the NLO, marking a significant milestone in the club’s ambition to become a leading football entity in Delta State.
The call-up to Team Delta, the defending champions of the National Sports Festival, underscores the duo’s growing reputation. Delta State has a storied legacy in the competition, having won the 21st edition in Asaba in 2022 and consistently producing some of Nigeria’s finest athletes.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Onoriode Oborevwori, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, recently urged Team Delta athletes to uphold the state’s tradition of excellence during the festival, emphasizing discipline and pride in representing the state.
The National Sports Festival themed Gateway Games 2025, currently underway at venues like the Moshood Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta, is a critical platform for talent discovery and national integration.
With Team Delta aiming to retain their title against fierce competition from other states, the Ughelli Rovers’ 15-year-old and 17-year-old sensational talents are expected to play key roles in the football event.
“Efe and Udori are shining examples of the talent we have in Ughelli and Delta State as a whole. Their hard work and dedication on the pitch have not only elevated our club but also earned them.
“This well-deserved opportunity to showcase their skills on a national stage. We’re incredibly proud and wish them success at the games,” said the Club President, Oke Umurhohwo.
As the Gateway Games unfold, all eyes will be on these young footballers as they aim to make their mark and continue Delta State’s dominance.
For Efe and Udori, this is not just a chance to compete but an opportunity to inspire the next generation of youngsters from their respective local communities and beyond.