Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta on Saturday affirmed the state’s readiness to host the 10th National Youth Games (NYG) as the 19th edition ended 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.
He said the state reached an agreement with the National Sports Council (NSC) to host the 2026 NYC, adding that the resolution stands.
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.
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.
“Today, we celebrate not only the medal winners but also the triumph of sportsmanship and national pride that this festival of youth has demonstrated.
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 over-aged athletes undermined the vision of the games.
He said the NSC should introduce stricter measures to restore integrity and ensure the event remains a true nursery of young talents.
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.
He also thanked the visitors for making Asaba their home during the period the Games lasted.
According to the governor, 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.
“On behalf of the Government and people of Delta state, I congratulate every participant and wish you safe travels back to your various destinations.
In his remarks, the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, represented by Chief Amaka Asiofu, Director of Grassroots Sports and General Coordinator of the Games, lauded the outcome of the 9th edition.
He described the Asaba edition as “an incredible experience, marked by fair competition, determination, exciting adventures, and inspirational sportsmanship.”
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.
Dikko assured that the commission would continue to implement policies to nurture the talents while promoting a sports economic ecosystem that would add value to Nigeria’s Gross Domestic Product (GDP).
He also expressed profound gratitude to Gov. Oborevwori, the Federal Government, participating states, sponsors, and stakeholders for their contributions to the success of the Games.
He lauded President Tinubu for his unwavering support for sports development under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
Earlier, Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Mr Onoriode Oborevwori, said the Games had showcased not only the competitive spirit of Nigerian athletes, but also the values of friendship, resilience, and cooperation.
He thanked the NSC, organisers, and stakeholders for their commitment and called for continued collaboration to drive development and excellence in sports.