The 8th edition of National Youth Games ended in Asaba on Thursday with Team Delta clinching a total of 111 medals to emerge winner.
Breakdown of the medals show that Team Delta won 46 gold, 31 silver and 34 bronze medals with Lagos State coming a distant second with 26 gold, 20 silver and 19 bronze medals while Edo State came third with 59 medals (18 Gold,13 silver and 28 bronze.)
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the games which took place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, the Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the development of sports infrastructure, with a view to promoting sports education and create a platform for youths to thrive.
The governor who was represented at the occasion by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, FCA, said the state was committed to the development of sports infrastructure since the games demonstrate the power of sports to unite and promote friendship and as well showcase our rich cultural diversity.
He said, “As we bring the games to a close,let us continue to nurture our young talents, invest in grassroot sports development and provide opportunity for our youths to excel.
“Here in Delta State,we are committed to developing, promoting sports education and creating platform for our youths to thrive.
“I charge you all to continue to earnestly crave for excellence as you grow to become ambassadors of our nation and to inspire others with your achievements.
“The games have once again demonstrated the power of sports to unite, to promote friendship and camaraderie, as well as to showcase
our rich cultural diversity.
“As Governor of Delta State, I am particularly honoured to host this prestigious event in our great city of Asaba for the second time. We are eagerly waiting to receive you again for the 9th edition, next year.”
Governor Oborevwori commended those who won medals during the games, the local organizing committee and the Federal Ministry of Sports for making the games a huge success.
The Minister of Sports Sen. John Owan Enoh who was represented by the Director, Grassroot Sports Development, Mr Patrick Okeke said the Youth Games was a veritable way to discover young athletes for sports development of the nation.
He said the games help to promote peaceful coexistence and unity among states and as well promote economic development for the host state.
The ceremony witnessed the presentation of medals to winners
