Asaba, Delta State — September 5, 2025
With the 9th National Youth Games racing toward its finale, Team Bayelsa’s Faye Perfect has emerged as one of the standout athletes of the tournament, clinching what many consider the competition’s most coveted medal — the boys’ 100m gold.
On Wednesday, September 3, at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium, the soft-spoken sprinter blazed through the finish line in 11.11 seconds, defeating his Lagos State rival Emmanuel Akolo in a thrilling final that headlined a day packed with action across football, judo, gymnastics, volleyball, and hockey.
Speaking to reporters after his victory, Perfect expressed confidence and hunger for more titles.
“This is just the beginning,” he said. “Beating Akolo in the 100m was a statement, and I’m ready to do it again in the 200m.”
The stage is now set for a high-stakes rematch in the 200m final on Friday, September 5, where both athletes will reignite a rivalry that began earlier this year when they were selected to represent Nigeria at the African Secondary School Games in Algeria.
Perfect’s triumph has not only boosted Team Bayelsa’s medal tally but also energized the entire contingent as the multi-sport event — which began on August 26 — approaches its closing ceremony on Saturday, September 6.
With momentum building and rivalries intensifying, all eyes will be on the track once again as Faye Perfect chases another title — and perhaps, a legacy.
