• Tinubu Declares Events Open
• Team Delta Fields 382 Athletes

The rush for medals at the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) officially began in Asaba, Delta State, on Friday. The Games was declared open by Special Adviser to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Media Communications, Chief Sunday Dare.

However, the contingents from Benue and Borno States were yet to be seen by members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC).

For the first time in the history of the Games, a large number of 6,700 athletes turned up in Asaba on Friday morning for the Games, thereby forcing the LOC to go the extra mile in the area of accommodation and some other logistics for the event.

A member of the LOC, Festus Ohwejoro told The Guardian on Friday that the unexpected large turnout of athletes notwithstanding, Delta was able to live up to expectations by accommodating everyone.

“As at 12.00 noon today (Friday), we are yet to receive any information from the contingent from two states (Benue and Borno). We just got information that Kebbi and Gombe State are on their way.

“Since the NYG began in 2013, this is the first we have this high number of athletes and officials. In the past, some states, particularly those in the north do participate with low number of three or four athletes. But right now, all the states stormed Asaba with unprecedented numbers unexpected large turnout of athletes and officials.

Our Governor, Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, wants the best for Nigerian youths. Delta no dey carry last. In 2022, we accommodated over 16,000 athletes during the National Sports Festival, so we are used to it. We have to make everyone happy,” Ohwejero stated.

The 9th edition is the third time Delta State is hosting the Games.

Meanwhile, defending champions, Team Delta is fielding 382 athletes and 143 technical officials at the Games.