As the excitement builds for the 8th National Youth Games, authorities in Delta State have given the nod for the festivities to kick off on schedule. On the eve of the event, the State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, inspected facilities at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, assuring that all is set for the eagerly anticipated Games.
The state capital has received a warm welcome for its guests – a record 5,776 athletes from 29 states – who have registered for the games. In preparation for the big event, Governor Oborevwori made sure to give the venue’s facilities the once-over. Accompanied by top officials from the State Sports Commission and Chief Solomon Ogba, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), the Governor conducted a tour of the venue, covering the swimming pool, shooting range, and Indoor Sports Hall.
Optimism is in the air, with Governor Oborevwori stating his confidence in the upcoming games. In a speech to journalists, he exclaimed, “We are ready for hosting the National Youth Games. I am sure that this year will be better than last year.” According to him, there have been benefits from hosting similar events, citing Favour Ofili’s outstanding performance at the last Olympics in Paris. “There is a good result from hosting these games because, as you can see from the last Olympics in Paris, Favour Ofili did very well even though she did not win a medal. She is a product of these games.” And, going forward, Governor Oborevwori promised to bring home the next big talent, proclaiming, “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.”
As the curtain gets set to open on this momentous event, spectators, athletes, and fans from all walks of life await the opportunity to experience the excitement firsthand. The state of Delta is undoubtedly well-prepared to make its mark as the hosts of this major sporting spectacular, and fans worldwide can tune in with anticipation.
