The Delta State Government has promised to host a worldclass National Youth Games, when the 7th Youth Games flag off in the Delta State capital, Asaba, from September 23, 2023.
The Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Chief Tonobok Okowa, said Tuesday, at the world press conference to usher in the 7th Youth Games, that Delta State Government had promised top notch organisation and a sporting experience like never before for the participating athletes, officials and members of the public.
Okowa, who is also the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, for the Youth Games assured that the state has planned a carnival-like opening and closing ceremonies with top musical acts, Ice Prince and Jaydee scheduled to entertain.
Okowa, who is also the president of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria and Confederation of African Athletics Zone 3, noted that unlike previous editions of the Youth Games where the spectators stands were virtually empty, the spectatorship in Delta is expected to be full to the brim to fill the stands and cheer the athletes.
He assured that the over 23 competition venues are fully ready except for minor finishing touches, while equipment for the Gymnastic Centre has arrived and would be installed in a matter of days.
Okowa disclosed however that there were little challenges with accommodation occasioned by the postponement of the games into the period that schools have now resumed and most institutions are finding it difficult to make their hostels available as was contained in the initial plan.
Notwithstanding, he assured that provisions have been made, including the procurement of fresh beddings, fans and other necessities for the comfort of the athletes.
All the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory have entered for the games with over 4,500 participants who are expected to begin arriving Asaba from September 20 ahead of the opening ceremony on the 23 September
