Team Delta Emerges Victorious at the 2024 National Youths Games

By Emmanuel Kwada

The 2024 National Youths Games came to a thrilling conclusion, with Team Delta proudly claiming the top spot on the medals table. The highly anticipated event, held from September 10-17, 2024, brought together talented young athletes from across Nigeria, showcasing their skills and determination in various sports.

Team Delta. Credit: Making of Champion

Team Delta won a total of 41 gold, 27 silver, and 30 bronze medals at the 8th National Youths Games (NYG) in Asaba, Delta. However, their victory was overshadowed by widespread allegations of age cheating, which has been a recurring issue in Nigerian sports.

Dr. Daniel Igali, President of the Wrestling Federation of Nigeria, expressed his concerns about age cheating, stating, “As a nation, we must have to end this win-at-all-cost approach to tournaments. If Nigeria wants to do well in international events, we must take deliberate steps to eliminate age cheating”.

He emphasized that the youth games are crucial for sports development, but the current system is being undermined by those who prioritize winning over fairness.

As a nation, we must have to end this win-at-all-cost approach to tournaments. If Nigeria wants to do well in international events, we must take deliberate steps to eliminate age cheating

Similarly, Mr. Obioma George, Director of Sports, Abia Sports Council, shared his disappointment with the organization of the event, citing inconsistencies in athlete screening.
“It is disappointing to note that some athletes were screened in spite of their age difference, which gives some states a brighter chance of winning more medals,” he said.

The final medal table saw Team Lagos take second place with 25 gold, 19 silver, and 18 bronze medals, while Team Edo came third with 53 medals (17 gold, 12 silver, and 21 bronze). Team Bayelsa secured fourth place with 52 medals (14 gold, 17 silver, and 21 bronze).

Medal Table:

Team Delta: 41 gold, 27 silver, 30 bronze
Team Lagos: 25 gold, 19 silver, 18 bronze
Team Edo: 17 gold, 12 silver, 21 bronze
Team Bayelsa: 14 gold, 17 silver, 21 bronze

The issue of age cheating remains a significant challenge for Nigerian sports, and it’s essential to address this problem to ensure the integrity and development of sports in the country.

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