The sixth edition of the National Youth Games was on Friday declared open by the Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr Kayode Alabi, at the Maracana Stadium, University of Ilorin.
The colourful ceremony witnessed a beautiful display by all participating teams with a calculated match pass parade that received cheers and praises from officials and the thrilled spectators.
In his speech, the Honourable Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare, represented by the newly appointed Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Mallam Ismalia Abubakar said that this year’s edition will not break away from its original purpose of unity and talent discovery.
“This edition of National Youth Games will be serving the purpose of which it was strategically designed by the ministry.
The concept of National Youth Games is to serve as an effective platform for talent identification, development and as well as a level-playing ground for young athletes, ranging from age 15 and below to achieve excellence in sports.”
Further, the Minister said that this year’s edition of the games is unique as it will produce formidable athletes that will represent Nigeria at the Africa Youth Games in Ethiopia 2022 and the next Youth Olympic Games in Dakar, Senegal.
“All concerned national sports federations must take advantage of this games and guide their sports to developmental objectives and further develop the identified talents to the benefit of the country”, the minister added.
The Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, Professor Sulyman Abdulkareem in his welcome speech delivered by the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof Malomo, registered his delights at what the university has been able to do as host so far. Hee also thanked the federal and state governments for their endless supports.
“I think this is the fourth edition we are hosting based on the MoU we have with the Ministry of Sports and I think we are doing well as far as the MoU is concerned.
“We are proud to represent you and we are grateful for the supports we have received from not only the federal government but also from Kwara State Government.
“I feel highly elated seeing everyone from various states coming together for this event. You are all welcome to the State of Harmony”.
The opening ceremony witnessed the match pass by participating states, but Team Kwara, Team Lagos won themselves extra cheers and applauses from excited spectators
