The zonal elimination for the ninth National Youth Games ended at the weekend in various centres, signalling the countdown to the Games scheduled to be held in Asaba, Delta State, from August 26 to September 6.

The South South zonal elimination was held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from August 15. Among the sports contested in Uyo were Abula, baseball/softball, basketball, beach volleyball,  cricket, football, handball, hockey, rugby sevens and volleyball. 

With the conclusion of the zonal elimination across the country, the number of athletes and officials expected to participate in the 9th NYG is expected to emerge later this week.
Meanwhile, host Delta State is intensifying its readiness to host a successful championship.
 
A member of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) set up for the Games, former Director General of Delta Sports Commission, Festus Ohwojero, said yesterday that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori wants to see a smooth organisation.

“As usual, our governor wants to see a perfect organisation because he believes that Nigerian youths deserve the best. On our side, we are not leaving any stone unturned in ensuring the good organisation in this 2025 edition,” Ohwojero stated.

Team Delta has won all editions of the championships since its inception in 2015.