Zamfara State is the only state missing as the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh joined Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, to flag off the 7th edition of the National Youth Games at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, the Delta State Capital on Saturday.
The Minister, who represented the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, said that the Games should promote the spirit of friendship amongst all states.
Enoh made the statement as he performed a kolanut-breaking exercise, a traditional symbol for peace, friendship and positive ideals.
He urged all state officials and athletes to compete with the spirit of fairness and togetherness while putting the interests of the nation first.
He sued for peace and greater unity amongst athletes and states participating in the 7th edition of the Games.
He thanked the Government of Delta State for accepting to host the Games, reiterating that benefits abound for both the State and the nation at large.
“Present here in Asaba, are boys and girls from far away states in the North, South, East and West.
Let this game catalyze us to work together, compete together, stay together and be able to understand each other. Our hope is that this National Youth Games will assist the Government and the people of Nigeria to foster peace and unity with one another,” he said.
“I thank the Delta State Government for accepting to host the Games. Our greatest hope is that the Games will proceed peacefully and at the end of the day, the Nation and the State of Delta will reap the benefits therein,” the Minister added.
The Games are expected to take place between September 23 to 30 across multiple venues in the Delta state capital. More than 5,742 athletes from the 36 states, including the Federal Capital Territory will compete for medals in 35 different sports as Zamfara State misses out on the National competition.
