Date: 2016-09-25

The second edition of the National Youth Games has opened at the University of Ilorin, the Kwara State capital north central Nigeria. Declaring the event open on Saturday, the Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Barrister Solomon Dalung harped on the development of sports from the grass root levels in line with international best practices.

The minister urged athletes to see their role in the games as a stepping stone to greater height bearing in mind that there is joy in participation and winning. "Sports in Nigeria have grown and contributed immensely to national unity and brought stronger binding spirit in the country," Dalung said. Also Governor Abdulfatah Ahmed of Kwara, commended the minister for sustaining the games which has become a platform for discovering talents.

Governor Ahmed urged the participants not to relent in achieving success in their areas of chosen sports. "As young athletes, you do not have to only focus on sports but extend such passion to your education," he advised. The Governor also called for synergy between public and private sectors in developing sports at all levels.

Universality of Sports The Vice Chancellor of University of Ilorin, Professor Abdulganiyu Ambali, while addressing the athletes said sports is the only thing in life that have universal language and easy to speak.

Professor Ambali explained that the University is hosting the Games in recognition of the role of youths as champions and custodians of the future. VON Sports Correspondent in Ilorin reports that a total of 2,645 athletes will compete in thirteen 13 events with 22 States participating.