Team Delta claimed victory at the 8th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta, despite ongoing allegations of age-related cheating.
According to the News Agency of Nigeria, the defending champions secured a total of 41 gold, 27 silver, and 30 bronze medals, solidifying their position as the top team in the competition.
A number of sports journalists and officials who observed the 11-day event expressed their dissatisfaction with both the organization and the results of the games.
Dr. Daniel Igali, President of the Wrestling Federation of Nigeria (WFN), addressed the media, highlighting age cheating as a significant obstacle in the country's efforts to nurture grassroots sports.
He emphasized the need to abandon the "win-at-all-cost" mentality in tournaments, stating that for Nigeria to excel in international competitions, it must take proactive measures to eradicate age cheating.
He warned that failing to tackle this issue would undermine the purpose of the youth tournament, as the desire of certain states to secure victories at any cost undermines the integrity of the competition.
Igali lamented that the youth games are becoming a failed initiative, as those responsible for athlete screening have turned the process into a system favoring the highest bidder.
He reiterated that the youth games are crucial for the country's sports development.
Additionally, Mr. Obioma George, Director of Sports for the Abia Sports Council, voiced his disappointment regarding the execution of the games.
He congratulated Delta for hosting the event but urged them to improve the athlete screening process.
He noted that it was disheartening to see some athletes screened out despite their eligibility, while others from different states, initially disqualified, later participated in the competition.
Obioma expressed hope that the organizers will take measures to prevent age-related cheating in future sports competitions, as it is proving to be more detrimental than beneficial.
The final standings released by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) indicate that Team Lagos secured second place with a total of 25 gold, 19 silver, and 18 bronze medals.
Team Edo followed closely in third place, amassing 53 medals, which included 17 gold, 12 silver, and 21 bronze. Team Bayelsa finished fourth in the rankings, earning a total of 52 medals, consisting of 14 gold, 17 silver, and 21 bronze.