The hopes of Benue State were dashed as the contingent returned from the recently concluded 7th National Youth Games in Delta State, known as Asaba 2023, without a single medal.
Sports enthusiasts and spectators are left wondering why Benue failed to secure any medals, considering the preparations and assurances provided by sports officials leading up to the event.
Prior to the commencement of the youth games, Governor Hyacinth Alia had allocated funds to support the participation of the Benue State contingent at this year’s edition.
The Commissioner for Sports, Youths and Creativity, Rt Hon Terkimbi Ikyange, confirmed this during a meeting with sports stakeholders in the state.
Hon Ikyange assured that the approved funds were intended to not only enhance the preparation of Benue’s representatives but also motivate them to bring glory to the state by winning numerous accolades.
The disappointing performance of Benue’s contingent at the sports festival has left the people of Benue in disbelief.
Several factors contribute to Benue’s underperformance at the youth games.
Despite being one of the most populous states in the country, Benue is currently experiencing a demographic shift in its youth population.
The burden of this sporting failure cannot solely be placed on the shoulders of these young athletes, as the passionate fans in the state also share in their disappointment.
It appears that this year’s edition of the games were treated as an opportunity for both athletes and officials to gain experience and explore, possibly contributing to the lack of success.
