By Anne Azuka
Delta State Government has said
that the 7th Edition of the National Youth Games set to kickstart on the 21st of September 19, 2023 will surpass the standard of the previous festivals.
Chairman of Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Tonobok Okowa who stated this yesterday while addressing newsmen Mr at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba reiterated the preparedness of the state to host a festival befitting of the rich sports culture of Nigeria.
According to Okowa, “We are going to surpass the standard that has been seen in the past events. We have adequate facilities for the 4,504 contingents from the 36 states and FCT to compete favorably. You would be proud of what Delta State is going to showcase during the youth games.
We are going to do it Delta style and ensure that the stadium is filled to give the athletes morale to be at their best. We want to ensure that we change the narrative of the game as a glorified inter house sport.
The President of Athletics Federation of Nigeria (AFN) also stated that medical experts against anti-doping will be at the games to test athletes must meet the required health standard to compete, saying that, anyone who thinks he is going to cheat in order to win might find himself in trouble
He also maintained there would be thorough screening of athletes to reduce participation of overaged athletes in youth games.
“We intend to use the National Identification Number (NIN) because we believe we will be able to determine the age of every athlete, we know this is important as some persons may want to cheat” he stated.
He however, assured the over 4, 000 contingents of their safety as he revealed that over 200 security personnels have been assigned to ensure the safety of athletes and officials during the game.
