The 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, continued to captivate fans on Saturday with electrifying performances from emerging athletes across Nigeria. Bayelsa and Delta States stole the spotlight with commanding victories and standout individual displays.
Basketball Brilliance from Team Bayelsa
Bayelsa’s basketball teams delivered emphatic wins in both male and female categories:
- Female Team: Dominated Team Niger with a decisive 8–2 victory in their second outing.
- Male Team: Outclassed Team Imo in a stunning 16–1 triumph, reinforcing their bid for tournament advancement.
FIVES: Olise Authority Leads the Charge
Bayelsa’s momentum extended to FIVES, where Olise Authority showcased his prowess:
- Secured a 2–0 walkover against Team Katsina.
- Previously defeated Team Delta 2–0 in the opening round, solidifying his status as a top contender.
Karate Glory for Delta’s Jennifer Ekaata Ehiozibue
Delta State’s Jennifer Ekaata Ehiozibue thrilled the home crowd with a masterful performance in the Female +47kg Karate category:
- Clinched gold with a commanding 7–0 win over Chidimma Nwangwu Mary Cynthia of Anambra State.
- Her technical precision and dominance earned widespread acclaim.
Rising Talents, Fierce Rivalries
As the Games progress into their crucial stages, the victories underscore the competitive spirit and depth of talent across participating states. With over 6,000 athletes competing in 37 sports, Asaba remains the heartbeat of youth sports development in Nigeria.