Lagos aims for dominance as youth games begins News

The ninth edition of the National Youth Games begins in Asaba, Delta State, on Friday (today), with Team Lagos aiming to set the pace with their 416 athletes contingent, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

Following the conclusion of the Digital Registration Management process, a total of 6,382 athletes have been confirmed by the National Sports Commission to represent all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory in Asaba.

Screening of athletes took place on Thursday with the official opening ceremony and the commencement of games billed for today.

Some of the events that will start today are table tennis, para table tennis, weightlifting, and karate.

Speaking ahead of the opening ceremony, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, emphasised the state’s readiness to deliver a standout performance to rival perennial champions Delta State and other contenders.

“We are very optimistic that Lagos will make multiple podium appearances. Our goal is to surpass our previous outing and continue to lead in sports development,” Fatodu said.

“We’ve enhanced the reward system for athletes, coaches, and technical crew. These incentives will undoubtedly contribute to our success. The support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has driven our progress. Lagosians should expect nothing less than excellence. Our athletes will entertain, inspire, and deliver stellar performances.”

Lagos is targeting dominance across multiple disciplines, including athletics, swimming, boxing, and weightlifting. The state is also taking a firm stance against age cheating, particularly in football, with a data-driven approach to ensure all athletes meet the appropriate age criteria.

Team Lagos will compete in a wide range of sports, including boxing, football, gymnastics, hockey, basketball, handball, volleyball, taekwondo, tennis, table tennis, weightlifting, and judo. The delegation comprises 416 athletes, 40 coaches, 38 secretaries, and other accompanying officials.

A total of 37 sports will be contested during the nine-day competition.