8th National Youths Games: President Tinubu commends Delta, says grassroots sports development key to boosting sector

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By Abbas Shehu in Asaba

The fascinating and colorful opening ceremony of the 8th National Youths Games which was declared open on Thursday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba, saw contingents from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) participate in a march pass with President Bola Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Sports and Youths Development, Senator John Enoh as Special Guest of Honour.

Shortly after the march pass, officiating officials and athletes representatives took oath, pledging to abide by the rules of the games.

Declaring the 8th National Youths Games open, President Tinubu said that the games is devoted to talent hunting and to develop youthful talent by allowing them to strive in a variety of sports disciplines, confirming that the Games has lived up to expectations by breeding future stars for Nigeria.

He said focusing on grassroots sports development is key to boosting the sector adding that the National Youths Games will continue as a nurturing ground for sports.

Expressing concern that the declining of sports in the country is as a result of aging of athletes, assuring that coaches are on ground to discover athletes.

He therefore commented the efforts of Delta State Government for being excellent host of the NYG, adding that he was highly impressed with the opening ceremony of the 8th edition compared to the 7th edition held last year.

The President further commended the 36 State Governors and the FCT for their continuous support to the National Youths Games. And wishes officiating officials, athletes and other officials that are here for the purpose of the NYG a successful and hich free tournament.

Earlier in his welcome address, the Delta State Governor Rt.Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori commended the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youths Development for its continuous organizing of the National Youths Games.

The Governor used the occasion and appealed to Federal Ministry of Sports Development to revert to the initial age of U-17 for the National Youths Games.

Governor Sheriff welcomed the over 6,000 athletes and 1,000 officials to Asaba, urging them to conduct themselves in a sportsmanship manner and enjoined the hospitality of the oil rich state.