By Uzor Odigbo
Sports Minister Senator John Enoh has directed that the ages of Athletes attending the National Youth Games be brought back to 17 years limit and below, suggesting that the U-15 age limit is no longer sustainable as he declares the 8th NYG open with 29 States in attendance.
Senator Enoh noted in his address that athletes, officials and the sports ministry should give proper attention to the youth games, insisting that the aim of the Youth Games is to discover talents and nurture them for future competition.
“The age limit for the games should be brought back to 17 and below,” Enoh said.
The 8th Edition of the National Youth Games Asaba 2024 was officially declared open on Thursday evening by the minister with a pledge to encourage and sustain attendance.
He praised the host, Delta State, for their sustained effort in hosting the NYG all these years and tasked states and Athletes to strictly play by the rules.
However, the economic situation presently in Nigeria knocked out Some states especially in the core North and North Central of Nigeria from attending the Games.
Games activities have already commenced with Swimming, table tennis, etc. Track&Field activities will begin in three days time.
Reports have it that over 6,000 Athletes, 200 media men and 3000 technical officials are on ground for Games.
On the general mood of the Games, our checks observed great enthusiasm by Athletes and officials but noticed hiccups in some logistic areas which was blamed on initial difficulties in such games.
