The 9th NYG officially kicked off on Friday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, with athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory marching proudly at a colourful opening ceremony, www.aclsports.com reports.
The ceremony thrilled spectators with music, cultural performances, and choreographed displays that showcased Nigeria’s rich diversity.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Sunday Dare, declared the games open. He described the NYG as a crucial avenue for discovering and nurturing young talents, while restating his administration’s commitment to sports development.
Tinubu also praised the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko, and Hon. Bukola Olopade for championing grassroots sports, and commended Delta State for successfully hosting the Games for the third consecutive edition.
In his goodwill message, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the event reflected unity, youth empowerment, and Nigeria’s sporting future.
“Staging this event for the third consecutive time demonstrates our strong commitment to grassroots sports. We are determined to nurture talent early, provide opportunities for our youth, and inspire them to bring honour to the nation,” he said.
The Games, running from August 29 to September 6, will feature 37 sporting events, including karate, squash, badminton, and athletics, with over 6,000 athletes and officials in attendance.
Hosts and defending champions Team Delta will look to extend their dominance as the competition unfolds.
The Asaba spectacle once again underscored the NYG’s importance as Nigeria’s premier platform for grassroots sports development.
