Minister Declares 8th National Youth Games Open In Asaba

Sports development minister, Senator John Owan Enoh, has declared the 8th National Youth Games (NYG) tagged ‘Delta 2024’ open.

While declaring the games open yesterday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, the Minister emphasized the importance of grassroots sports development in nurturing young talent and strengthening the country’s position in global sports.

In a ceremony that brought together young athletes and officials from across the nation, Senator Enoh said president Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration is committed toward repositioning Nigeria’s sports for optimal performance.

“In today’s world, sports play a crucial role in creating wealth, promoting peace, fostering national unity and facilitating international diplomacy. This is why the current administration, under the leadership of His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu (GCFR), is committed to repositioning the sector for optimal performance in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda.”

Reflecting on the lessons learned from the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the minister called for a renewed focus on grassroots development.and commended the efforts of Delta State governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his continued support of grassroots sports.

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A total of 4,585 athletes and 1,159 officials cleared to participate — the highest number ever recorded for the National Youth Games.

“This year’s edition of the National Youth Games presents yet another opportunity to initiate the process of athlete development for the next generation of Olympic and Paralympic champions and the setting of world records,” he added.

Delta State governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, assured the participants that this year’s edition of the National Youth Games will be better than previous editions.

Recall that Delta State hosted the 7th edition of the Games last year when the Governor Oborevwori was barely a few weeks in office, but speaking after inspected the swimming pool, shooting range and other facilities at the Indoor Sports Hall before the opening ceremony, he said: “We are ready to host the National Youth Games and I am sure that this year will be better than last year.

According to him, there are good results from hosting the Games. “You can see that in the last Olympics in Paris, Favour Ofili did very well even though she did not win a medal. She is a product of this Games.

“So, in this year’s games, we are looking for a talent better than Ofili. I assure our people that this year will be better than last year.” he said