By Sunday Apah
As the 8th National Youth Games (NYG) commenced in Asaba, Delta State, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori highlighted the state’s strong reputation for fostering sports development in Nigeria.
During the opening ceremony at the Stephen Keshi Stadium on Thursday, Oborevwori expressed his enthusiasm for hosting the event for the second consecutive year. “We take great pride in welcoming this event once again. Delta State is synonymous with sports in Nigeria,” he stated.
The governor emphasized the importance of providing a platform for young athletes to demonstrate their talents, ensuring a structured program that promotes their progress in various sports.
“I would like to extend my gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the Local Organizing Committee for their dedication in organizing the National Youth Games. With approximately 6,000 athletes and over 1,000 officials participating, this year’s event sets a new record,” he added.
Oborevwori also articulated his concern about Nigeria’s declining performance in recent sports events and proposed that the age limit for the National Youth Games be adjusted back to the original upper limit of U-17, instead of the current U-15.
“This change would facilitate a smoother transition for our talented older teenagers and young adults into the senior category of Team Nigeria, minimizing gaps in their competitive journey.”
He stressed the need for increased attention to school sports programs, advocating for compulsory inter-house competitions in primary and secondary schools and the consolidation of school sports festivals.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who officially opened the 8th edition of the games, emphasized its importance in nurturing and identifying talent, remarking that grassroots sports development is crucial for the future of the country’s athletic endeavors.
Represented by Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, the President urged various sporting federations to actively engage in scouting for new talent throughout the games.
“My administration is committed to refining sports for enhanced performance in alignment with our Renewed Hope Agenda, with an emphasis on investing in grassroots sports,” President Tinubu stated.
He echoed Governor Oborevwori’s call for revising the age limit back to U-17, acknowledging the need for continuity in talent development.
The President also commended Delta State’s ongoing support for grassroots sports initiatives in Nigeria.
In his welcome remarks, Chief Solomon Ogba, Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, praised Delta’s reputation as a sports hub and expressed gratitude to the State Government for its consistent support in hosting both national and international sports competitions.
He affirmed to the athletes from across the country that they can expect excellent accommodations and transportation during the duration of the 8th National Youth Games.
