By Uzor Odigbo
Three events concluded the 8th edition of the National Youth Games inside the mainbowl of Stephen Keshi Stadium,Asaba
They are the 400x 100 mix relay won by Edo state with a time of 45.32secs,,Delta came out second with the silver medal,the 4×400 meters girls won by Team Delta with a time of 3,34.15secs, Edo 2nd with silver,while Cross Rivers took the bronze at third position, and the 4×400 meters boys, with Delta claiming gold with a time of 3,20.83 secs, while Abia came 2nd with the silver medal and Ogun state collected the bronze medal at 3rd position.
The Governor of Delta State, Elder Sheriff Oborevbori was represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Oyeme. The Director General of the state sports commission, Festus Owhohjero delivered his welcome speech at the occasion. The closing ceremony address of the President was delivered by the sports minister, senator John Eno. Team Delta won the tournament trophy with a total of 111 medals comprising of 46 gold, 31 Silver and 34 bronze, Lagos State are second with 65 medals consisting of 26 gold, 20 silver and 19 bronze,while Edo state came out 3rd with 18 gold,13 silver and 28 bronze to amass a total of 59 medals to make up the top three teams on the medals table.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, representatives of Delta State governor, Sheriff Oborevwori aside congratulating Participating states promised to host the 9th edition in Asaba in 2025.
Gov. Oborevwori through his deputy congratulated winners and losers adding that their participation made the games happen. He emplored them to continue with their training and keep developing their talents.
The 8-day competition witnessed the discovery of 453 Young talents as disclosed by the Sports Minister’s representative.
However, the 9th edition may witness the reintroduction of the under 17 boys and girls as Governor Sheriff Oborevwori proposed in his address at the NYG opening Remarks.
With over 5000 athletes, 1000 technical officials, 200 media men on ground in Asaba for Games, reports have it that businesses flourished, new friends were made which culminated to friendship for advancement of unity which is the very essence of the Games