By ETTAH EMMANUEL O.
The 8th National Youth Games (NYG), officially branded Asaba 2024, has commenced with the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) opening the Games Village to athletes. This pivotal step marks the beginning of a highly anticipated event, running from September 9 to 19, hosted in Delta State. The Games Village, designed to provide optimal comfort for participants, is now operational, with athletes settling into various accommodations across the state.
Festus Ohwojero, Secretary of the LOC and Director General of the Delta Sports Commission, announced that the Games Village will house over 5,000 athletes across several key venues including Dennis Osadebay University, Delta State Sports Commission hostel, Anglican Girls Grammar School, and Infant Jesus Academy. This infrastructure aims to ensure that athletes are well-supported and their health needs are met, with comprehensive health insurance provided to address any medical emergencies during the event.
Harrison Ocholor, Chairman of the NYG media sub-committee, assured that all participants are covered according to international standards and emphasized the importance of fair play. The organizers have made it clear that any form of cheating will not be tolerated, with stringent measures in place to uphold the integrity of the competition.
Delta State will host athletes from 35 states competing in 31 different sports. Notably, Team Sokoto is preparing to make a significant impact, with their U-15 teams in handball, volleyball, and football gearing up for strong performances. Team Sokoto’s Director of Sports, Alhaji Abdulhakim Yakubu, expressed confidence in their readiness, citing recent successes in zonal competitions. Yakubu also praised the support from Sokoto’s Governor, Dr. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto, and the Commissioner of Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Jamilu Umar, highlighting the historic significance of this event for the state.
As the Games approach, athletes and spectators alike are eager for a thrilling competition that promises to showcase the best of young sports talent from across Nigeria.
