Delta State Triumphs at ‘Asaba 2023’ National Youth Games with 116 Medals
ASABA/Nigeria: In a stunning display of athletic prowess, Delta State emerged victorious at the 2023 National Youth Games (NYG), aptly named “Asaba 2023,” securing a total of 116 medals and reinforcing their dominance in the competition.
Team Delta clinched an impressive haul of 51 gold, 34 silver, and 31 bronze medals, securing their seventh consecutive win at the NYG. Lagos State secured the second position with a total of 61 medals, comprising 21 gold, 19 silver, and 21 bronze, while Edo State claimed the third spot with 21 gold, 15 silver, and 17 bronze medals.
Delta’s triumph on their home turf marked an unprecedented seven victories in as many National Youth Games since 2013 when the event was first hosted in Abuja, followed by Ilorin hosting the subsequent five editions.
The closing ceremony, held at Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, saw Governor Sheriff Oborevwori expressing his congratulations to Team Delta and all participating teams for their remarkable efforts. Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, Governor Oborevwori commended the organizers for their dedication, which contributed to the success of the games.
In his address, Governor Oborevwori said, “After seven days of intense sports competition, rivalries, and pomp and pageantry, the curtain draws on the 7th National Youth Games today. New champions have emerged, new talents discovered, and new heights have been attained by the participants and organizers.”
He continued, “I congratulate the winners and all the participants. In the last one week, we watched with admiration as you dazzled us with your talents and abilities, the will to win, and the spirit of excellence.”
Governor Oborevwori also commended those who did not secure medals, encouraging them to maintain their champion spirit and apply the lessons learned in their daily lives.
Furthermore, he emphasized the importance of preparation, discipline, focus, teamwork, and sportsmanship as principles that lead to success, both in sports and life.
The Governor extended his gratitude to the organizers, including the Federal Ministry of Sports Development, Delta State Sports Commission, and the Local Organizing Committee, for their significant contributions to the development of sports in the country.
He said, “I thank you for the excellence and remarkable tenacity that you displayed in your organization of this event. You made us proud, and may the good Lord continue to strengthen you for the work you are doing.”
Governor Oborevwori expressed his appreciation for coaches, officials, security personnel, protocol and welfare teams, as well as volunteers who dedicated their time, energy, and resources to make the event a resounding success.
In a statement delivered on behalf of the Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Enoh, by Acting Director of Grassroots Sports Development, Mr. Patrick Okeke, the Delta State Government was lauded as a valuable partner in sports development. The Minister highlighted that the National Youth Games consistently met expectations each year and played a significant role in nurturing athletes who had gone on to win laurels for the nation.
Additionally, the Minister emphasized that the games had a positive impact on the state’s economy, generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities in the sports value chain. He expressed the Ministry’s readiness to explore partnerships that would further enhance sports development in the country, noting that over 400 athletes had been identified from the participating states at the games.
