Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, expressed his elation on Thursday as Delta State claimed victory at the 2024 National Youth Games (NYG), hosted in Asaba. This marks the state's eighth consecutive win since the inception of the games in 2013, further solidifying its dominance in youth sports.
Team Delta topped the medals table with an impressive haul of 111 medals, comprising 46 gold, 31 silver, and 34 bronze medals. Lagos State followed in second place with 65 medals (26 gold, 20 silver, 19 bronze), while Edo State, which had posed a strong challenge throughout the competition, secured third place with 59 medals (18 gold, 13 silver, 28 bronze).
The victory continues Delta's unbroken winning streak at the National Youth Games, making it the only state to have won the competition since its inception. Edo and Delta states were both carved out of the defunct Bendel State on August 27, 1991, making this year's competition a friendly yet competitive rivalry.
At the closing ceremony, held at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori, represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, congratulated Team Delta and all participating states. He expressed his pride in the athletes' performances and thanked the event organizers for their efforts in making the games a success.
"I congratulate the 35 states and Abuja for participating in this year's Youth Games," Oborevwori said. "Our young athletes have displayed exceptional talent, resilience, and sportsmanship. To those who won medals, I applaud your achievements. To those who didn't, your participation is a victory in itself."
The Governor also expressed gratitude to the Federal Ministry of Sports Development and the Local Organizing Committee for their dedication to making the event a success. "The games have once again demonstrated the power of sports to unite us, promote friendship, and showcase our cultural diversity," he added.
Looking ahead, Governor Oborevwori reaffirmed Delta State's commitment to youth and sports development, pledging to continue investing in infrastructure and creating opportunities for young athletes. He also hinted at Delta's eagerness to host the 9th edition of the games in 2025.
Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, represented by Mr. Patrick Okeke, Director of Grassroots Sports Development, commended the Delta State Government for its contribution to sports development. He noted that the National Youth Games had been a critical platform for discovering young talent, many of whom have gone on to represent Nigeria on the global stage.
Enoh highlighted the success of the games in fostering economic prosperity for the host state, promoting peace and unity, and creating both direct and indirect employment opportunities. He also recognized a standout athlete from Gombe State who won three gold medals in gymnastics, congratulating him for his remarkable achievement.
Meanwhile, the Director-General of the Delta State Sports Commission and Secretary of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), Mr. Festus Ohwojero, expressed his appreciation to the people and government of Delta State for their support. He thanked Governor Oborevwori for his unwavering commitment to making the event a success.
As Delta State continues to celebrate its dominance at the National Youth Games, the focus now shifts to nurturing young talent and preparing for the next edition of the games, where the state aims to extend its historic winning streak.
