Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has called on the National Sports Commission (NSC) to urgently tackle the issue of age cheating at the National Youth Games in order to protect the competition’s credibility and ensure fairness.
Speaking today at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, during the closing ceremony of the 9th edition of the Games, Oborevwori commended the athletes for their resilience and spirit of sportsmanship but warned that the practice of fielding over-aged athletes was undermining the vision of the event.
“What began days ago with great excitement has now come to a glorious conclusion. Today, we celebrate not only the medal winners but also the triumph of sportsmanship and national pride this festival has demonstrated,” the governor said.
“The continued practice of states fielding over-aged athletes undermines the vision of the Games. The NSC should urgently introduce stricter measures to restore integrity and ensure the event remains a true nursery of young talents.”
The 9th edition of the National Youth Games was held from August 29 to September 6, 2025, in Asaba, Delta State, with 6,382 athletes and officials from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory competing in 37 sports.
Oborevwori congratulated all participants and wished them safe travels, while also expressing appreciation to President Bola Tinubu, the NSC, the Local Organising Committee, coaches, officials, and volunteers for ensuring a successful tournament.
In his remarks, NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko—represented by Chief Amaka Asiofu, Director of Grassroots Sports and General Coordinator of the Games—hailed the Asaba edition as “an incredible experience, marked by fair competition, determination, exciting adventures, and inspirational sportsmanship.”
He praised the Delta State Government for its robust sports development system and assured that the NSC would continue to implement policies to nurture young athletes while promoting a sports economic ecosystem that contributes to Nigeria’s GDP.
In the final medal standings, Lagos State emerged overall winners for the first time with 110 medals (52 gold, 32 silver, and 26 bronze).
Delta State placed second with 114 medals (37 gold, 38 silver, and 39 bronze), while Edo State finished third with 79 medals (33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze).
Overall, 33 states won medals at the Games, with a combined total of 802 medals—246 gold, 236 silver, and 320 bronze.