By Onomiguren Agbamu
The Delta state government has promised tight and adequate security for the Asaba 2023 National Youth Games, to hold 20th- 30th of September 2023 in Delta state.
The state government gave the assurance during a media briefing by the Delta State Sports Commission Chairman, Mr. Tonobok Okowa.
The spot state chairman noted that Delta is prepared to provide a befitting hosting that will surpass the previous standard set in Illorin years back.
He revealed that 23 different venues to be used for the games were set with adequate state-of-the-art facilities, adding, the hostels, water, and other welfare facilities have been provided.
He continued, ” The gymnastics facilities will be brought in tomorrow Wednesday, and will be installed. The main bowl of the Stephen Keshi Stadium Asaba will be wearing a new look ahead of the opening ceremony this Saturday. There will be spectacular performances, and you will be proud of Delta in what the state is going to showcase”
Disclosing that 4,504 athletes Under 15, and about 800 officials from thirty-six states of the federation and FCT would be competing in 35 sports in twenty-three different venues in Asaba, Okpanam, and its environs.
He continued, “Funding will not be a challenge. Delta State Government has provided the funds for the successful hosting of the games. We are going to manage the available resources”.
Okow also disclosed that an anti-doping body had been invited to test athletes, and warned that any coach that features athletes detected of using banned substances would land in trouble
Delta State Sports Commission Chairman, also noted that 450 contingent will be representing the Delta, and will be competing in all the 35 sports.
The Athletics Federation of Nigeria President said the screening of athletes would be thorough to ensure that only the youths within the approved age brackets compete, “Here, we are looking at several ways. We will require physical appearance, birth certificate, international passport. It’s not going to be easy. We’ll do our best”.
The media briefing was attended by top management of the Delta State Sports Commission and the representative of the Federal Ministry of Sports, Olalekan Alabi.
Recall that the 7th National Youth Games earlier slated to commence on 7th September this year was postponed to 20th September, as the newly sworn-in Sports Minister allegedly called for the shift to enable him to be properly briefed ahead of the games’ commencement.
FCT hosted the first edition of the National Youth Games, with Illorin hosting the last five editions.
Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
