Sports Minister Urges States To Present Young Talents At 2024 National Youth Games.
The Honourable Minister of Sports Development, Senator John Owan Enoh, has called on state contingents to bring forward their most promising young athletes for the National Youth Games, which are set to commence in Asaba. The Minister stressed that the future of Nigerian sports hinges on the talent pool identified and nurtured through youth championships like these.
The Games Village for the Asaba 2024 National Youth Games was officially opened on Monday, 9th September, ahead of the opening ceremony, which is scheduled for Wednesday, 11th September. The event will be held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, with over 5,000 young athletes representing their respective states in a variety of sporting disciplines.
Senator Enoh emphasised the critical role the National Youth Games play in the long-term development of Nigerian sports, stating: “This is the moment for states to invest in the future of Nigerian sports. We must identify, nurture, and expose our young athletes to high-level competition, preparing them to take over from the current stars.”
He further added, “When the likes of Amusan and Oborodudu bow out, we must ensure the next generation are ready to collect the baton and shine on the stage.”
The Minister reiterated the importance of the games as a platform for discovering future champions, while also ensuring that the event is not solely about winning medals but about long-term athlete development. A Technical Committee has been set up to oversee the competition, ensuring adherence to strict guidelines, especially concerning age verification, to maintain fairness and integrity.
Senator Enoh concluded by underscoring that the National Youth Games provide the perfect stage for future Olympians and world champions, and called on all participating states to make the most of this opportunity by presenting their best young talents.
The 8th edition of the National Youth Games runs from 9th to 19th September, with high hopes of unearthing the next generation of Nigerian sports stars.
