As
the National youths games came to a close yesterday, Cross
Rivers emerged as this year's overall winner, with Akwa Ibom as the
first runner up and Delta the second runner up.
The
highlight of the games was the relay finals, with Cross Rivers states
winning the Gold medal in the Girls race, which was presented by the
president of the Local organizing committee Engr. Sani Ndanusa. Kwara
state won Gold for the boys and their medals was presented to them by
the Sports Minister and Chairman of National sports commission, Mallam
Bolaji Abdullahi.
At
a brief press conference held at the closing ceremony yesterday, the
Minister hailed the games a success and said it was not about the medals
won, but rather it was a platform for the athletes to commence their
sporting careers.
“I
have been told that three hundred and seventy new talent were
discovered, a demonstration of what’s possible to work together in a
common objective” he said.
“We
are excited to see the determination and fairness and the true spirit
of sportsmanship that all athletes displayed throughout the event.
Already the federations are ready to invite the discovered talent into
their games to prepare for the next Olympics.”
He
also addressed the problem with accommodation for the athletes and said
the issue will be dealt with appropriately in time for the next games.
To
end the games, the Nigerian Service Civil Defence Corps performed the
national anthem to rousing applause from the spectators.
Male Relay Gold medalists from Kwara State receiving their prizes from the Sports Minister
Female Relay Gold medalists from Cross Rivers receiving their prizes
Athletes from Akwa Ibom
Athletes at the closing ceremony of the NYG
Onlookers salute whilst the national anthem that closed the event is played
800m Race
Wasiu Aderemi of Kwara (blue) and Daniya Emos of Katsina (Red)
Football Final between Abia State (White) and Katsina, Abia won 5-4
Esther from Ogun, the 800m Gold medal winner
Grace from Anambra, Female High Jump Gold medalist
Mariam Clement from Akwa Ibom, Female High Jump Silver medalist
Female Long Jump
Banner advertising the events
Athletes and spectators at the NYG closing ceremony
Traders at the Stadium during the events
Photographs by Emmanuel Sarki and Femi Church
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