By Anne Azuka
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has urged all state officials and athletes to compete with the spirit of fairness and togetherness, while putting the interests of the nation first.
The President who was represented by the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh gave the advice while declaring open the 7th edition of the National Youth Games, taking place in Asaba, Delta State.
Tinubu said that the Games should promote the spirit of friendship amongst all states.
The Games will take place between September 23rd – 30th, 2023 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.
Also, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has want assured the athletes and officials of a peaceful and exciting games.
Oborevwori added, “several of security personnel, protocol officers, traffic management teams, and volunteers are on ground to ensure a peaceful, safe, and secure environment for athletic competition”.
He however congratulated the Federal Ministry of Sports Development for their consistency and dedication in organizing the National Youth Games.
” No doubt, the National Youth Games has come to stay and is a powerful vehicle to discover new talents from the grassroots and ensure that there is a standard programme for athletes.
“Aside from athlete development, the National Youth Games has also proven to be a cost -effective and reliable tool to promote national unity and advance development and peace agendas of both the national and sub-national governments.
” We have made adequate arrangements for hitch-free movement across the length and breadth of the city. There has not been a single report of security breach in previous competitions that we have hosted, and, by God’s grace, this year’s event will not be an exception”, he stressed.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission (DSSC), Mr. Tonobok Okowa officially welcomed Athletes, Coaches, Officials and journalists to Delta State for the 7th National Youth Games, “Delta 2023”.
Tonobok Okowa who doubles as the President of the Athletics Federation Nigeria (AFN) assured of a good hospitality from the host while also admonishing the athletes to stay away from the use of drugs.
“We are delighted to welcome you all to Asaba, Delta State for the 7th National Youth Games “Delta 2023”. This is the first in a series of 4 National Youth Games, to be hosted by our state, Delta State.
“We thank God for bringing all the contingents who are here today for the epoch making occasion. We thank the Delta State Government for agreeing to host the next 4 editions of the National Youth Games.
“As the State that sets the pace in sports in Nigeria, Delta State is poised to lift the standard for the hosting of National Youth Games.
“I urge all athletes participating at these games to capitalize on the international standard facilities available in Delta State to put their best foot forward in their various events, so that they will make the required cuts for grooming into world beaters in no distant date.
“I implore you all to say No to drugs if you must be counted amongst future champions.
“As you settle down to compete with your peers, be rest assured that the Government and good people of Delta State will accord you the best possible hospitality throughout your stay with us.
“Welcome to the home of Sports!”, he concluded.
