Senator John Owan Enoh, the Sports Development Minister, has declared the 8th National Youth Games (NYG), dubbed ‘Delta 2024’, open.
Yesterday, when opening the games at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, the Minister stressed the importance of grassroots sports development in fostering new talent and improving the country’s place in global sports.
Senator Enoh stated at a ceremony attended by young athletes and authorities from around the country that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is committed to repositioning Nigerian 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 from the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic Games, the minister advocated for a fresh emphasis on grassroots development.and praised Delta State governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, for his ongoing support of grassroots sports.
A total of 4,585 competitors and 1,159 officials were approved to compete, the biggest 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 told the contestants that this year’s National Youth Games will be better than past editions.
Remember 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 inspecting 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