Delta State won the 2023 National Youth events (NYG) dubbed “Asaba 2023” with 116 medals, highlighting the domination of the events in the State.
Team Delta won for the seventh time in a row with 51 gold medals, 34 silver medals, and 31 bronze medals. Lagos State came in second with 61 medals, including 21 gold, 19 silver, and 21 bronze medals, and Edo State came in third with 21 gold, 15 silver, and 17 bronze medals.
Delta’s victory brings it seven wins in seven National Youth Games since 2013, when Abuja hosted the first and Ilorin hosted the last five.
Senator John Enoh, Minister of Sports Development, was represented by Mr Patrick Okeke, Acting Director of Grassroots Sports Development, who praised the Delta State Government for being a good partner in sports development.
He stated that the National Youth Games continue to exceed expectations year after year, and that participating athletes have gone on to win national honors.
According to the minister, the games contributed to the expansion of the state’s economy by creating direct and indirect jobs in the sports value chain.
He stated that the ministry is open to partnerships that will further boost sports development in the country, and that over 400 athletes from the participating states have been recognized.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, speaking at the games’ closing ceremony at Asaba’s Stephen Keshi Stadium, complimented team Delta and the other participating teams on their achievements.
The governor, represented by Secretary to the State Government Kingsley Emu, commended the organizers for their hard work that contributed to the games’ success.
“After seven days of intense sports competition, rivalries, and pomp and pageantry, the curtain draws on the 7th National Youth Games today. New champions have emerged, new talents discovered, and new heights have been attained by the participants and organisers.
“I congratulate the winners and all the participants. In the last one week, we watched with admiration as you dazzled us with your talents and abilities, the will to win, and the spirit of excellence.
“Every one of you did your best to win and I commend your drive and determination to succeed. But as it is the case in sports, not everybody will climb the medals table.
“Those of you who did not win a medal can hold your head high that you competed with the heart of a champion and showed us a great deal of promise. Thank you for the exciting moments you gave us. We are proud of you.
“As you all return to your various states, I trust that you will apply the lessons you have learned from this competition into your daily lives.
“These are the importance of preparation, the benefits of discipline, the power of focus, the essence of teamwork, the joy of winning, and the spirit of sportsmanship.
“These are principles that enable you to win not just on the field but also in life. I urge you to resist the temptation to be complacent, and continue to strive for greatness on and off the field,” he said.
He commended the organisers – the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Delta State Sports Commission, and the Local Organsing Committee for their contributions to the development of sports in the country.
Governor Oborevwori, said:
“I thank you for the excellence and remarkable tenacity that you displayed in your organization of this event. You made us proud and may the good Lord continue to strengthen you for the work you are doing.
“My gratitude also goes to the coaches and officials, security personnel, protocol and welfare teams, as well as all the volunteers who gave of their time, energy, and resources to make this event an astounding success,” he stated