From Abel Leonard, Asaba
As the 9th edition of the National Youth Games gets underway in Asaba, Delta State, President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Mr Isaiah Benjamin has expressed optimism that the competition will serve as a platform to discover Nigeria’s next generation of sporting talents.
Benjamin made the remarks yesterday during a tour of athletes’ and officials’ camps, screening centres, and competition venues shortly after arriving in Asaba ahead of the official opening ceremony scheduled for Friday, August 29.
“First of all, I want to thank God for the safe arrival of the various state contingents and officials from the National Sports Commission,” he said. “The competition, designed for athletes under the age of 15, is aimed at discovering young talents for the future. As usual, the stage is set, and we expect nothing but a good outing for all participants.”
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The SWAN president also emphasised the importance of professionalism among journalists covering the event, urging reporters to prioritise accuracy and responsible journalism.
“I expect everyone, especially my colleagues, to be on top of their duties. I appeal to every sports journalist to verify their information and sources before publishing,” Benjamin added.
He further clarified that media accreditation for the Games would be strictly limited to registered members of the association.
Meanwhile, defending champions Delta State have already settled in Asaba, setting the tone for what promises to be a highly competitive multi-sport festival. The Games will run from August 29 to September 6.
According to a statement by SWAN Secretary-General, Ikenna Okonkwo, members of the SWAN National Executive Committee (NEC), state chairmen, secretaries, and a large contingent of sports journalists from across the country are already on the ground to cover the event.
In the meantime, Team Nasarawa athletes completed their screening on Thursday and declared readiness to participate. Our correspondent gathered that the state presented one of the largest contingents in the junior cadre, particularly in team sports such as football, hockey, and volleyball.
“We have high hopes of getting medals from these sports,” a Nasarawa official said. “All eyes are on our first football match, especially after eight years of no participation in football at this level.”
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