The National Sports Commission (NSC) has confirmed that 6,382 athletes and officials will participate in the 2025 National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
The Games are scheduled to run from August 29 to September 6, promising nine days of excitement and competition.
According to the NSC, this figure followed the conclusion of the Digital Registration Management (DRM) process across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
The breakdown shows 4,961 athletes, 635 coaches, 386 team officials, and 400 state delegates.
Gombe State is yet to complete registration for its 74-member squad. However, organisers said this delay does not affect the confirmed tally.
In total, athletes will contest in 37 different sports. Events will cut across popular games such as athletics, football, and basketball, and less-known ones designed to discover hidden talent.
“The Youth Games remain Nigeria’s biggest platform for grassroots talent discovery,” the Commission stated.
Team Delta Target Another Title
Host state and defending champions Team Delta are favourites once again. Their consistent record has made them the team to beat.
The last Games was the 8th edition, held in Asaba, Delta State, from September 12 to 20, 2024. Delta State emerged as the overall winner for the 8th consecutive time, securing a total of 111 medals – 46 gold, 31 silver, and 34 bronze.
Here’s a breakdown of the top three states:
- 1. Delta State: 46 gold, 31 silver, and 34 bronze medals, totaling 111 medals
- 2. Lagos State: 65 medals
- 3. Edo State: 59 medals
But states like Lagos, Ogun, Rivers, and Edo are reportedly preparing hard to challenge Delta’s dominance this time.
Since its inception, the National Youth Games have produced athletes who later represented Nigeria at continental and global competitions.
Scouts, coaches, and administrators will watch closely in Asaba, hoping to identify the next breakout stars.
Asaba Prepares for a Festival of Sports
Final preparations are ongoing in Asaba ahead of the opening ceremony on August 29.
Thousands of fans are expected to troop into the Delta capital for the nine-day event.
With over 6,000 participants, organisers believe this year’s edition could be the biggest since the Games began.
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