The 9th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG) will officially commence in Asaba on Friday, August 29, with 6,382 athletes and officials from across Nigeria set to participate in the country’s largest grassroots sporting festival.
The stage is set for nine days of sporting excitement as the 9th National Youth Games bring together contingents from all 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). According to finalized entries released by the National Sports Commission (NSC), this year’s Games will feature 4,961 athletes, 635 coaches, 386 team officials, and 400 state delegates making up a total of 6,382 participants.
The Digital Registration Management (DRM) process, which closed this week, confirmed large-scale participation, underlining the growing relevance of the Games as a breeding ground for Nigeria’s future sports stars. While Gombe State is yet to complete its final DRM procedures for 74 participants, the Commission says the turnout reflects the strong nationwide enthusiasm for youth development through sports.
No fewer than 37 sporting events will be contested in Asaba, ranging from athletics, football, and basketball to lesser-profile but rapidly growing disciplines. Defending champions, Team Delta, will be aiming to capitalize on their home advantage as they push to retain their title.
The NSC, in a statement signed by Kola Daniel, Special Assistant on Media to the Director General, described the Games as more than just a competition. “The 9th National Youth Games is a celebration of talent, determination, and national unity as Nigeria witnesses the stars of the future compete for glory,” the statement read.
The Games, scheduled for August 29 to September 6, 2025, are expected to attract nationwide attention and provide a platform for discovering and nurturing the next generation of Nigerian sporting heroes.
