Delta State Governor, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa has assured the President, Confederation of African Athletics (CAA), Hamad Kalkaba that the state would host the best championship ever like they did in 2013 during the inaugural African Youth Athletics Championships (AYAC).

Kalkaba was hosted in the office of the Delta State Governor on Monday alongside his entourage, which included his wife, the President of the Athletics Federations of Nigeria (AFN), Solomon Ogba, board member, Falilat Ogunkoya, and AFN’s Head of Communications and Media, Olukayode Thomas.

Okowa said with good planning, it is possible to organise and put together a good and memorable show.While admitting that finance is important in fulfilling such a mission, he pointed out that a good work force and experienced hands are quite vital, adding that the state have all in abundance to host the event.

He noted that although Nigerians love football, athletics is more important as it engages more youths than any other sports.“Africa needs to believe more in itself and work harder to be the best in the world and give a lot of exposure to the youth. Delta is ready to work with the AFN, CAA to put together a world class event and we are looking forward to a successful hosting,” Okowa assured

The CAA president thanked the governor for his readiness to host the rest of Africa next year.Kalkaba pointed out that the 2018 Senior Athletics Championships is very important as the representatives for Africa to the World Cup will be selected in Delta, so Africa’s best will be competing in the oil-rich city.He said the CAA is ready to offer all the assistance to make Asaba 2018 a world-class event.