Sports Minister Harps on Talent Discovery, Hails Delta State

7TH NATIONAL YOUTH GAMES

Omon-Julius Onabu  in Asaba

The Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, has said that the discovery of fresh talents is the paramount aim of the apex sports ruling body as the National Youth Games began on Saturday in Asaba, Delta State.

Enoh said it was obvious that the competition would foster friendship from various parts of the country but he added that the main objective of identifying future champions for the country must not be jettisoned in any way.

“I am aware that the youths will be happy to socialise and mix with one another just as there will be lots of inter-cultural friendships. As officials, we are going to concentrate on those talents with potential to take the country higher in the years ahead. The objective of the games must not be lost,” observed Enoh, a former member of the upper chamber of the National Assembly from Cross River State.

The Minister, however, charged the athletes to be of good behaviour and avoid performance enhancing substances.

He said he was delighted to start his tenure with a grassroots event in a sports-loving state like Delta. “No doubt, Delta has raised the bar for other states with what I am seeing so far.

“I am so delighted with the facilities and setting here. I wish the athletes a peaceful contest, ” Enoh concluded in his message at the opening ceremony where he represented President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to declare the Games open.

Also speaking at the opening ceremony, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, remarked that Delta State has gradually assumed the status of Nigeria’s desired sports destination, and commended the Federal Ministry of Sports Development for its consistence and dedication in organizing the National Youth Games. 

The National Youth Games has come to stay, the governor noted, describing it as “a powerful vehicle to discover new talents from the grassroots” and ensure that there is a standard programme for athletes’ succession as well as promoting national unity.

Oborevwori said, “Aside from athlete development, the National Youth Games has also proven to be a cost-effective and reliable tool to promote national unity and advance development and peace agendas of both the national and sub-national governments. 

“Indeed, when effectively harnessed, sports have the power to positively impact on the economic and social wellbeing of any society.”

A total of 5,742 athletes are  participating in this 7th edition of the competition

 taking place at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, Delta State.