Former national triple jump champion Olu Sule has called on the Sports Ministry to be tough on age-cheating as the National Youth Games beckons young athletes from September 10-18, 2024, in Asaba, Delta State.
The NYG is open only to the U15 athletes, but over the years some states have continued to parade athletes above the category thereby defeating the purpose of the competition. In the 2023 edition, athletes who were screened out were later allowed back into the field to contest.
“The only way is to meet the defaulters with stiffer penalties while rewarding those sticking by the rules,” said Sule who discovered sprinter Kayinsola Ajayi who represented Nigerian recently at the 2024 Olympics from the NYG.
“We must also remove the winning culture of awarding medals or having medals table. Rather, recognition and rewards should be given to states presenting athletes within the age brackets and still winning.”
Meanwhile Sports Ministry officials and the organising commitee inspected the facilties at the Stephen Keshi Stadium and other venues to be used for the NYG Monday.
Delta State Sports Commission director-general, Mr Festus Ohwojero assured the various states’ contingents to the National Youth Games of a memorable outing. He said Governor Sheriff Oborevwori remained committed to delivering an enhanced sports fiesta that would take the National Youth Games to a higher level.
