As the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) nears its grand finale, Asaba, Delta State, is buzzing with energy, thrilling performances, and powerful stories, all highlighting the rise of Nigeria’s future sports stars.
From the lush fairways of the Ibori Golf Country Club to the weightlifting stage and the vibrant atmosphere of Stephen Keshi Stadium, young athletes from all over Nigeria are making powerful statements about the bright future of the nation’s sports.
Golf was in the spotlight on Day Three, as the Technical Director of the Nigeria Golf Federation, Mr. Olajide Bolaji, shared his confidence in the country’s emerging young talent. “Our youth have huge potential in golf,” he said, highlighting the sport’s prestige and the 24 medals up for grabs at this year’s Games. He also pointed to a recent achievement by a Nigerian youngster at the World School Championship in Morocco as clear evidence that Nigeria is ready to shine on the global golf scene.
Bolaji praised Delta State for its efforts in hosting the event but emphasized the need for greater support from both the government and the private sector.
The Nigeria Sports Commission (NSC) has also expressed strong optimism about the future. After attending a tennis match at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, its Director General, Hon. Bukola Olopade, praised the athletes for their passion and discipline.
He linked the vision of the Games to President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, emphasizing that investing in grassroots sports is essential for developing future global champions.
Taking place from August 26 to September 6, the Games feature 37 different sports, with athletes from 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory battling it out for medals. Host state Delta, the defending champions, are currently leading the pack, closely followed by strong contenders like Lagos, Edo, Oyo, and Bayelsa.
In weightlifting, Team Edo was unstoppable, dominating the women’s events to become overall champions with nine golds, one silver, and two bronzes. Standout athletes like Favour Cornelius, Esther Amarachi Chijoke, and Beauty Akpore each took home three gold medals, showcasing Edo’s strength. In the men’s division, Team Akwa Ibom impressed with five gold medals, while Vitalis Nnaji Chiemerie from Team Abia made a mark by sweeping the 60kg category. Nigeria Weightlifting Federation President, Dr. Ibrahim Abdul Aladi, praised these performances and promised to continue supporting the growth of upcoming lifters.
Other sports have also brought exciting moments. Bayelsa’s Miracle Edim Eko made headlines by winning her state’s first-ever gold in the Female Pistol Individual shooting event.
In taekwondo, Team Nasarawa’s Emmanuel Joseph came close but narrowly lost 9–8 to Enugu’s Temple Okwudili in the -45kg category, while his teammate Godwin Kasimu geared up for a challenging match against Lagos. So far, Team Nasarawa has also earned three bronze medals in karate.
Darts has delivered some new excitement, with Imo’s Grace Ebochukwu securing her spot in the 501 singles final after beating Rivers’ Destiny Kelechi. She’s set to face off against Delta’s Jessica Okonkwo in what’s sure to be an exciting showdown.
Beyond the medal count, many stakeholders are pushing for structural changes. Some experts suggest moving the Games to an under-17 category to create a clearer pathway between school sports and elite competition. They believe this change would bring Nigeria in line with global standards and help athletes transition more smoothly to senior levels.
With just a few days remaining, the National Youth Games are proving once again to be a true launchpad for future champions, sparking excitement not only in Asaba but also inspiring the hopes of a nation hungry for sporting success.
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