Tag: National Youth Games

The 9^th  National Youth Games in Asaba did more than crown winners—it revealed the heartbeat of Nigeria’s sporting future. In the laughter, sweat, tears, and unrelenting drive of these young athletes lies a story of hope and promise. From the sands of beach volleyball to the depths of the swimming pool, from the calm precision of shooting to the explosive speed on the track, these youngsters reminded us that greatness is not bound by age, writes TUNDE LIADI

The  National Youth Games (NYG) concluded  in Asaba  penultimate weekend  was more than just a gathering of budding talents; it was a showcase of grit, discipline, and the dreams of Nigeria’s next generation of sports icons. From the sandy courts of beach volleyball to the shimmering pools of swimming, from the precision of shooting to the endurance of athletics, these youngsters etched their names in history with remarkable performances.

Their performances were more than medals; they were statements of intent. Every dive, every sprint, every serve, and every lift spoke of discipline, resilience, and the hunger to dream beyond boundaries. What we witnessed in Asaba was not just competition—it was a canvas where tomorrow’s stars painted their first strokes of glory.

As you read through the  immaculate stories of Esther, Tofunmi, Dumuje, Maryam, Imran and many others, just keep in my mind  that  they are Nigeria’s  future Olympic hopes.

Esther Odoni: Courage on the Sand

At just 13 years old, Odoni Esther made her National Youth Games debut in beach volleyball and walked away with a gold medal. Alongside her teammate, she overcame a formidable Oyo side with her unyielding service game and fighting spirit. Despite battling nerves, Esther credited her faith, coaches, and determination for the triumph.

 “I prayed silently that God should give me courage. I was able to cheer my partner, and together we won,” she said with joy.

Dumuje Abili: the golden legacy continues

Already a familiar face at the Games, 14-year-old swimmer Aidan Dumuje Abili added five more gold medals to his glittering collection, bringing his NYG total to over 10. Competing in his third edition, Dumuje reaffirmed his dominance in the pool while also revealing his experience at the National Sports Festival where he clinched silvers and bronze.

 “I felt relieved that all my hard work paid off. This means a lot to me,” he reflected.

Oluwatofunmi Ibidapo: the golden girl of Asaba

If there was one athlete who captured the games’ spotlight, it was 13-year-old Oluwatofunmi Ibidapo, who stormed to six gold medals in swimming. Her victories in butterfly, medley, and relay events marked her as a generational talent. With her mother cheering proudly, Tofunmi spoke of her Olympic ambitions.

 “I started swimming as a pastime, but now I dream of the Olympics,” she said.

Maryam Muhammed: dream start on the big stage

For 12-year-old Maryam Muhammed, her first NYG outing was nothing short of magical. She captured four gold medals, crediting her mother and coaches for guiding her path. Behind her triumph is a story of resilience—early mornings, rigorous training, and a family motto: resilience is the key.

 “I see myself swimming at the Olympics and winning gold for Nigeria,” Maryam declared.

Imran Adenusi: record-breaking swimmer

After three NYG appearances, 13-year-old Imran Adenusi finally struck gold—twice—while setting a new national record in relays. From going home empty-handed in his debut to now envisioning a place at the 2032 Olympics, Imran’s journey reflects persistence.

 “In seven years, I see myself at the Olympics,” he said with confidence.

Nedd Sisters: double delight from Lagos

Swimming sisters Olutise and Tireniolu Nedd proved their pedigree, combining for three gold medals. For Tireniolu, it was a step up from her silver and bronze in the last edition, while Olutise sees it as only the beginning of a longer journey inspired by their family tradition in swimming. Both hope to qualify for the 2026 Youth Olympics in Senegal.

Benjamin Nwuke and Ugban Grace Ukeunm: shooting stars for Imo

Team Imo’s first gold medal in Asaba came courtesy of Nwuke Grace Benjamin and Ugban Grace Ukeunm in the mixed doubles air rifle. Their partnership, built on friendship and passion for the sport, gave Imo State a moment of pride.

 “I am so happy and excited to have won gold,” Benjamin said.

Hephzibah Gabriel Okon: athletics’ future gem

At just 12, Hephzibah Gabriel Okon is already a three-time NYG participant. Her steady rise culminated in a golden run in the 800m, alongside silvers in the 1500m and 4x400m relay. Inspired by her father, a former athlete, she now dreams of representing Nigeria internationally.

 “Imaobong Nse Uko and Comfort James are my role models. I want to be like them,” she said.

Adedayo Onasanya: pedalling with purpose

Cyclist Adedayo Samuel Onasanya claimed silver for Team Imo in the 80km road race. Competing since 2023, this was his first NYG medal, one he dedicated to his coaches and teammate. With proper equipment, he believes his best is yet to come.

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 “With modern facilities, the sky will be the starting point,” he said.

The Ezenwa Sisters: strength in weightlifting

Weightlifting saw the emergence of the Ezenwa sisters—Chinaza Cecilia (53kg) and Chidalu Esther (44kg)—who shared six medals between them. Both inspired by their mother, they embrace the sacrifices the sport demands, vowing to keep pushing boundaries despite the physical toll.

Divine Ndem: leading from the front in Abula

As captain of Team Imo’s Abula squad, Ndem Divine Chijiudo guided her team to gold, avenging last year’s semifinal heartbreak. Her tears of joy at the final whistle reflected her passion and leadership.

 “I am the happiest person in the world. This is my first gold, and it means so much,” she said.

Board member of the Nigeria Shooting Sports Federation (NSSF), Air Commodore Rahinatu Garba (retd), has expressed concern over the limited allocation of medals for Shooting at the ongoing National Youth Games, even as she hailed the unprecedented participation of states in the event.

Garba, who represents the North East zone on the NSSF board, noted that Shooting has made remarkable strides in recent years, with 20 states registering for the event for the first time. She described the turnout as a “thing of joy” and commended the federation’s leadership, coaches, and zonal representatives for their relentless efforts in growing the sport.

 “I am so happy to see this crowd. For the first time, 20 states registered for the Shooting event. It is unprecedented because it has never happened before,” she said. “I must commend the leadership of the Nigeria Shooting Sports Federation, the zonal representatives, and the coaches for pushing so hard to get to this stage.”

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However, Garba lamented the disparity between the number of participating states and the available medals. She revealed that while Shooting boasts more than 20 competitive events, only six medals were allocated at the Games.

“What we are facing is allocation of medals because ideally we have over 20 events but we were only given six medals, maybe because they are youths. We are calling on the National Sports Commission to please increase the medals so that these youths will have more medals to go home with. Twenty states competing for just six medals doesn’t look good enough,” she stressed.

She also  highlighted her personal efforts in popularizing Shooting in the North East, a region where the sport was previously frowned upon due to the insurgency. She recalled how a demonstration event in Bauchi last year helped change perceptions and even produced a silver medallist at the Youth Games.

 “Even though the perspective about Shooting is to kill and with the insurgency in the North East it cannot be welcome, with the demonstration and acceptance I am thankful to God that one of the boys we discovered last year September represented Bauchi State here and won a silver medal,” she explained.

She  appealed to government at all levels to invest in Shooting infrastructure, pointing out that only Abuja, Delta, and Rivers States currently have functional Shooting ranges. According to her, the high cost of weapons remains a barrier for most states.

She also emphasized the role of zonal representatives and coaches in creating awareness, staging demonstrations, and nurturing young athletes. Since assuming office in 2022, Garba said she has personally sponsored athletes in the North East, providing pellets, paying transportation costs, and supporting para athletes who went on to win medals for the zone.

 “I have never missed any championship. In 2023 I also sponsored para athletes where we won a silver and a bronze for the zone. I tried my best to ensure I get athletes from other states to support my zone,” she added.

Looking ahead, Garba expressed optimism that Shooting would continue to gain ground nationwide, with hopes that all states of the federation will participate in future editions of the National Youth Games.

The ongoing 9th National Youth Games (NYG) Competition in Asaba, Delta State, has reached its sixth day, showcasing competitive spirit among twenty-nine (29) participating states.

As of Wednesday, a total of 346 medals have been awarded.

Team Lagos comfortably leads the medals table with 30 gold, 12 silver and 11 bronze medals; Edo State is trailing behind with 22 gold, 8 silver and 14 bronze medals while the defending champion and host Delta State occupies the third position with 10 gold,17 silver and 19 bronze medals .

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A few sports events are yet to commence such as kick boxing and wrestling, while several others such as swimming, weightlifting, shooting, table tennis, para table tennis, karate, gymnastics, para power lifting, scramble and chess have been concluded with attention now shifting to athletics.

Athletes are in high spirits, with fans, and thousands of visitors enjoying the hospitality and tranquillity that characterize the fast growing sports city of Asaba.

Businesses at games venues especially the befitting Stephen Keshi International Stadium, Asaba are at peak, with unprecedented patronage and security.

Members of the Local Organising Committee NOC for the 9^th  National Youth Games holding in Asaba, Delta State, are scrambling for more space to accommodate what an official described as ‘unexpected’ large turnout of athletes and officials For the event.

 For the first time in the history of the Games in 2013, over 7,000 athletes  and officials are in Asaba for the 9^th  edition, which will be declared open today by the chairman of the National Sports Commission NSC, Malam Shehu Dikko on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

  A member of the LOC, Festus Ohwojero said yesterday that they never envisage such large turnout of athletes.

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  “As we speak, we are making frantic arrangements to see how can cater for the over 7,000 athletes. For the first time since the NYG began in 2013, we have not recorded this high number of athletes and officials,” Ohwojero stated.

He added:  In the past, some states, particularly those in the north do come with low number of athletes. But right now, all the states stormed Asaba with unprecedented numbers. But we won’t turn them back. This is Delta State and we will see what we can do to make everyone Happy,”

The 9th edition is the third time Delta State is hosting the Games and Ohwojero  enthused  that the state has the capacity to defend their title despite threats from others.

Ohwojero said: “It is a National Youth Games and every state has the right to aspire for the title. I know that Team Delta is fully ready to defend their title but if any other state is better prepared, we will accept the result. As I said, Delta State is ready to defend the title.”

On expectations  in today’s opening ceremony, Ohwojero stated that some top music stars and traditional dancers will entertain the athletes and spectators.

  Meanwhile, the Director General of the National Sports Commission, Bukola Olopade and some other top officials from Abuja arrived Asaba yesterday evening in preparation for the opening ceremony today.

Over 6,000 athletes  to grace event  in Asaba

After the conclusion of the Digital Registration Management (DRM) process, a total of 6,382 athletes have been confirmed to represent all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

The rush for medals will begin today  though the Games will be officially declared open on August 29. It will run till September 6, 2025.

  The breakdown of registered participants includes 4,961 athletes, 635 coaches, 386 team officials, and 400 state delegates, reflecting the growing scale and significance of the Games as a national platform for youth development and sports excellence.

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Gombe State is yet to finalise DRM procedures for its contingent of 74 participants. However, the current total of 6,382 registered individuals stands as the official figure heading into the opening ceremony.

   This year’s Games will feature no fewer than 37 sporting events, showcasing a wide range of disciplines and offering young athletes the opportunity to compete, grow, and shine on a national stage.

  The defending champions, Team Delta, will be looking to retain their title, but face stiff competition from other states eager to make their mark.

According to the National Sports Commission (NSC), ‘the 9th National Youth Games is more than just a competition. “It is a celebration of talent, determination, and national unity,” the NSC said on Wednesday.

  “These Games continue to serve as a breeding ground for future champions and a symbol of hope for Nigerian sports.”

Oyo contingent stranded in Ibadan

The Yobe State sports contingent has  departed for the National Youth Games, set to take place in Asaba, Delta State.

The games are scheduled to commence  from August 29 to September 6, 2025.

Addressing the athletes at the August 27 Stadium in Damaturu before their departure on  Wednesday 27^th  August , Governor Mai Mala Buni charged the athletes to be good ambassadors of the state, exhibit good behaviour, and bring laurels to Yobe.

Represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mohammed Balumi, the governor urged the athletes to justify the confidence of the state and its people, and be victorious in all events.

“We expect you to represent us well and bring laurels to Yobe”, the governor said. “Let me also advise you to work together as a team and ensure the athletes are well cared.”

Team captain, Mohammed Haruna, assured the Governor that they would be of good behaviour and sought prayers for their safe trips and victory.

The National Youth Games will feature 36 states and the FCT, competing in over 37 sports disciplines, including athletics, football, and basketball.

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The event aims to promote unity, discipline, and excellence through sports across the nation.

The Nation reports that Yobe and Borno state teams will represent the Northeast region for the games having emerged victorious at the zonal elimination games held last month  in Gombe, Gombe State.

National Youths Games: Team Oyo Stranded Over Lack of Funds

In a related development, the Oyo  State contingent  is reportedly stranded at the Lekan Salami Stadium Ibadan  with slim hope of attending  the biennial games.

An eye witness account  informed  NationSport  that  young athletes in large numbers, were seen  milling around the stadium yesterday  with no official information  regarding their departure from Ibadan to  Asaba.  

None of the officials of Oyo State Sports Council sighted refused  to speak on the matter.

But  there are speculations  that there’s no financial provision for the trip by the Oyo State government since  the governor has yet  to  accent to the proposal submitted over  three months ago.

Incidentally,  Governor  Seyi  Makinde  is expected  to proceed on a month-long leave  tomorrow  leaving the fate of the young athletes hanging in the balance.

Athletes from different parts of the country are expected to arrive in Asaba, Delta State capital today for the 9^th  edition of the National Youth Games.

This is the third time in a roll  that Delta State  is hosting the Games  after Kwara State held the event five times  at the University of Ilorin. The maiden edition took place in Abuja.

  The Delegation Registration Meetings (DRM) which started on August 21^st, ended on Sunday, August 24^th  to pave the way for the commencement of the Games.

According to the Local Organising Committee (LOC), today and tomorrow are being  observed as arrival dates for the event  while the opening ceremony will take place on August 29.

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The Chairman of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Mallam Shehu Dikko,  is expected to declare the 9^th  NYG open on behalf of President Bola Tinubu.

  Meanwhile,  the announcement  of Team Delta delegation to the 2025 NYG is eagerly being awaited.   Team Delta, which has maintained its top position on the medals table since the commencement of the Games, had been in closed camping since last week. Over the past few months, the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) have been actively involved in inspecting and certifying facilities and venues, to ensure they meet the required standards for hosting a successful event which brings  together the best young talents from across the country to compete for glory and national recognition.

Last week, the NSC reiterated its commitment to delivering a well-organised event that not only showcases Nigeria’s next generation of sports stars, but also promotes unity, discipline, and excellence through sports.

The Handball  Federation of Nigeria has raised concerns about the integrity of team selections for the upcoming 9^th  National Youth Games (NYG) scheduled to take place between  August 26  and  September 7  in Asaba, Delta State.

The Federation in a press statement signed by the Secretary General, Monica Otumala,  emphasized its commitment to upholding the developmental goals of the Games and maintaining fair play across all participating states.

The HFN reiterated that the National Youth Games are strictly reserved for athletes aged 15 years and below. Despite this regulation, it was observed during zonal eliminations that several states fielded players who recently participated in senior-level competitions such as the National Division One League and the Ardova Premier League.

This act, described as an “influx of mercenaries,” contradicts the vision of the Youth Games, which is to identify, nurture, and promote grassroots talent. The HFN warned that any state found guilty of using over aged or ineligible athletes will face automatic disqualification from the handball event at the Games.

In response to this malpractice, Secretary General Otumala announced that the Federation has put in place robust processes to identify and disqualify any teams attempting to cheat. Specific methods were not detailed, but the Federation expressed full commitment to ensuring only eligible players participate.

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Additionally, the statement directed that each qualified state must come to the Games with a referee pair (2 referees) to assist in officiating matches. Importantly:

These referees will be under the full responsibility of their respective states.

The Handball Federation of Nigeria, under the leadership of its President Samuel Ocheho, has reinforced its dedication to promoting fairness, transparency, and youth development in Nigerian sports.

All participating states have been urged to comply strictly with the eligibility rules and logistical responsibilities to ensure the success of the handball events at the 9th National Youth Games.