“We are all winners”, Sheriff Oborevwori, Executive Governor of Delta State, said in his congratulatory message to Team Delta after emerging second in the 9th National Youth Games which held in Asaba, Delta State.
With 37 gold, 38 silver, and 39 bronze medals, Delta State trailed Team Lagos, who won 52 gold, 32 silver and 26 bronze medals.
At the closing ceremony of the event at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium, Asaba, Governor Oborevwori expressed his frets over the “steady erosion of its credibility” as many States “continue to field over-aged athletes across key events”.
Oborevwori urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to install “measures” that will ensure “age-cheating” is rooted out and “fairness and credibility” are restored to the Games.
Taking to X, Governor Oborevwori said: “I had the pleasure of attending the closing ceremony of the 9th edition of the National Youth Games, Asaba 2025, at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium, Asaba.
“It has been 12 days of fierce competition marked by determination. From the opening whistle to the final contest, Asaba 2025 has once again reflected the Nigerian spirit — our resilience, diversity, and our shared dream of a greater tomorrow through sports.
“However, the 9th edition has also exposed a worrisome trend: the steady erosion of its credibility, as numerous states continue to field over-aged athletes across key events. I urge the National Sports Commission (NSC) to, as a matter of urgency, put measures in place to curb age cheating and restore fairness and credibility to the Games.
“I am pleased that the National Youth Games has provided a platform for gifted and talented young people. Team Delta secured 37 gold, 38 silver, and 39 bronze medals to finish in second place.
“Once again, congratulations — we are all winners.”
