Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Saturday affirmed the state’s readiness to host the 10th National Youth Games (NYG), as the 9th edition concluded with Lagos State emerging champion.

The governor affirmed the hosting right in his closing remarks at the 9th NYG at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba.

Mr Oborevwori said the state reached an agreement with the National Sports Council (NSC) to host the 2026 NYC, adding that the resolution stands.

The governor said, “Delta is ready to host the 10th edition of the Games in 2026, in line with the agreement that gave the state hosting rights for four consecutive editions.”

He, however, tasked the NSC to, as a matter of urgency, address the growing problem of age cheating at editions of the youth games in order to safeguard its credibility and ensure fairness.

Mr Oborevwori described the competition as a festival of unity, discipline, and excellence.
He said, “What began days ago with great excitement has now come to a glorious conclusion.

He commended the athletes for their resilience, stressing that whether they won medals or not, they had inspired the nation through their courage and determination.

While praising Team Delta for sustaining its tradition of sporting excellence, he said the games also provided a platform for discovering new talents from across the country.

He, however, lamented that the continued practice of states fielding overaged athletes undermined the vision of the games.

The governor said the NSC should introduce stricter measures to restore integrity and ensure the event remains a true nursery of young talents.

Mr Oborevwori thanked President Bola Tinubu, the NSC, the Local Organizing Committee (LOC), coaches, officials, and volunteers for their roles in ensuring a smooth and successful outing.

In his remarks, the NSC chairman, Shehu Dikko, represented by Amaka Asiofu, Director of Grassroots Sports and General Coordinator of the Games, lauded the outcome of the 9th edition.

He thanked the Delta government for its robust sports development system, noting that the Games had once again provided Nigeria with a fresh pool of athletes who would eventually replace aging national players across various sports.

Mr. Dikko assured that the commission would continue to implement policies to nurture talent.

Earlier, chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, thanked the NSC, organisers, and stakeholders for their commitment.

(NAN)