Delta State has emerged the overall winner of the 8th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG), tagged Asaba 2024, after amassing 98 medals, including 41 gold, 27 silver, and 30 bronze.
The latest update of the medal table, released on Wednesday night, shows Delta firmly in the lead, with Lagos State taking the second spot with 62 medals—25 gold, 19 silver, and 18 bronze. Edo State, which had earlier held second place, slipped to third with 17 gold, 12 silver, and 24 bronze medals.
While Delta celebrated its dominant performance, the NYG proved challenging for some states. Ebonyi and Zamfara States failed to secure any medals by the end of the competition.
The National Youth Games, which began in Asaba with high hopes from across the country, will officially closed yesterday with a grand ceremony at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium, Asaba.
Reflecting on Delta State’s triumph, one of the coaches from the team remarked, “It is not surprising that we topped the table. Delta has consistently invested in sports development, and the results are clear. Our athletes are determined, and this victory belongs to the entire state.”
As the games conclude, the athletes and officials are expected to gather for the closing ceremony, capping off what has been a thrilling competition that showcased young talents from across the nation.
In the same vein, Senator John Enoh, the Minister of Sports, delivered the closing remarks on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, congratulating all participants.
Tinubu said, “This year’s National Youth Games has been a beacon of hope for the future of Nigerian sports. The talent on display shows that Nigeria is on the right track in nurturing young athletes.
“Team Delta dominated the medal table with 46 gold, 31 silver, and 34 bronze medals. Lagos State followed with a total of 65 medals, comprising 26 gold, 20 silver, and 19 bronze, while Edo State came third with 59 medals, including 18 gold, 13 silver, and 28 bronze.
“The National Youth Games continue to serve as a platform for identifying and nurturing young talents for future national and international competitions,” he noted.
The Deputy Governor of Delta State, Sir Monday Oyeme, represented Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the event.
Addressing the crowd, Festus Owhohjero, the Director General of the Delta State Sports Commission, welcomed athletes and dignitaries, expressing pride in the state’s outstanding performance.
According to him, “Delta State has once again proven that it is a powerhouse in sports development in Nigeria, “he said.
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