As the 7th Edition of the National Youth Games is poised to kick off, around 20 states have already made their way to Asaba. As at press time, over 20 teams, including contingents from Adamawa, Anambra, Bayelsa, Benue, Ebonyi, Edo, Ekiti, Enugu, Katsina, Kano, Kwara, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun, Plateau, and Yobe were present at the venue, while several others were still anticipated.
The contingents adhered to the scheduled itinerary for the games, aiming to complete their screening and registration process prior to the opening ceremony on Saturday. This will mark the official commencement of the Games, with all 36 states of the federation and the FCT vying to unseat the reigning champions, Team Delta.
An impressive turnout of over 5,000 athletes and officials is expected to participate in approximately 35 events during this edition of the games.
The Organizing Committee has pledged a vibrant carnival-themed affair this year, and they’ve also upped the ante with an expanded roster of guest performers—from two to four—featuring the talented artists May D and Khaid.
It’s worth noting that Delta State secured the hosting rights for the games for the next four years after formalizing an agreement with the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports last year.