Official: the 9th National Youth Games begins in Asaba [VIDEO]

The 9th National Youth Games was officially started on Friday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who opened the open event.

The president was represented by his special councilor for the media and public communications and former sports minister Sunday Dar.

In his observations, President Tinubu described games as a “real platform to discover and feed the talents” who continued to represent Nigeria at the local, continental and international level.

He reaffirmed the commitment of his administration for the development of sport, underlining that sports remain a unifying force for the nation.

“Very recently, we witnessed the president, together with the First Lady, encouraging the Super Falcons and D’Ac Tigress. The support show underlines the administration’s commitment company to continue investing in sport and strengthening development throughout the country,” he said.

The president praised the National Sports Commission under the guidance of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for their efforts in promoting the development of young and basic young people.

He also praised the government of the state of the delta for hosting the games, observing that Asaba gradually became the headquarters of sports competitions in Nigeria.

By declaring the games open, Tinubu wished the athletes well, praying that “the best teams, the best states and the best athletes will shine”.

Speaking on behalf of the host state, Delta Governor, RT. Hon. The sheriff Oborevwori, represented by President of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. EMOMOTIMI GUWOR, described the event as a celebration of youth, unity and the future of Nigeria.

He said that Delta State, considered the house of the champions, has constantly produced sports icons such as Stephen Keshi, Austin “Jay-Jay” OKOCHA, OKAGBARBER and ESE BRUME blessing.

According to him, the state has continued to support this tradition with heavy investments in modern sports facilities, youth empowerment and basic competitions.

“Hosting these games for the third consecutive time is a test of our commitment for basic sports. We believe in capturing young people, giving our youth the platform to excel and bring glory to Nigeria,” he added.

President of the main organizing committee (MOC) and general manager of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, described the Youth games as plants to build a strong path that connects the basic talent to the elite performance and the success of the podium.

Previously, the president of the local organizing committee (LOC) and the president of the Delta State Sports Commission, Honored Oborevwori, has ensured participants an excellent hosting experience.

“From updated structures to efficient logistics and a welcoming environment, Asaba is destined to offer not only a sporting event, but a memorable experience,” he said.

Founded in 2013, the National Youth Games acts as a platform for talents and national unity. Delta State, which hosts for the third consecutive time, dominated the competition by winning all eight previous editions.

This year, over 6,000 athletes from all over the country are competing for medals in 37 sports at games.