Plenty Athletes Show Face, Overwhelm Organizers as National Youth Games Kick Off Today

Members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the ninth National Youth Games wey dey hold for Asaba, Delta State, dem been forced to scramble for more space to fit the “unexpected” large turnout of athletes and officials for the event. For the first time forthe Game history, over 7,000 athletes and officials don land in Asaba for this edition, wey he go officially open today by the Chairman of National Sports Commission (NSC), Shehu Dikko, on behalf of President Bola Tinubu. One LOC member, Festus Ohwojero, talk say the committee no dey expect such large number of people. “As we dey talk now, we dey rush arrange how we go take cater for over 7,000 athletes. Since the NYG start for 2013, we no ever record high number like this for athletes and officials. For past editions, some states, especially those wey dey North no fit field many athletes. But this time, all the states carry plenty people to Asaba. But we no go turn dem commot. This na Delta State and we go try our best make everybody happy,” Ohwojero talk.

When dem ask whether Team Delta fit still defend their title amid strong challenge from other states, Ohwojero talk say: “Na National Youth Games and every state get right to chase the title. I know say Team Delta prepare well to defend their title, but if any other state don more prepared, we go accept the outcome. As I talk before, Delta State ready to defend their title.” As to wetin people fit expect for today’s opening ceremony, Ohwojero talk say some big music stars and traditional dancers go perform to entertain the athletes and spectators.