Team Nasarawa made a bold statement at the opening ceremony of the 9th National Youth Games on Friday, August 29, 2025, dazzling spectators at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, with a spirited march-past that showcased the state’s optimism for sporting excellence.
The ceremony, which was declared open by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by his Aide on Information and Public Communications, Hon. Sunday Dare, drew dignitaries and sports enthusiasts from across the country.
Barely 24 hours after the colorful parade, Team Nasarawa began reaping early rewards, securing three bronze medals in Karate.
Magdalene Inji won bronze in the Girls’ –47kg category.
Alexander Otuma followed up with another bronze in the Boys’ –50kg category.
Chineye Agbo added a third after defeating her FCT opponent to settle for bronze in the Girls’ +47kg Kumite event.
In football, the Nasarawa boys carried their strong form from the zonal eliminations into the tournament, pulling off a shock 1-0 victory against hosts Team Delta at the St. Patrick’s Football Pitch, Asaba, on Saturday.
Miracle Oshala struck the lone goal that secured the win and boosted the team’s chances of progressing to the knockout stages.
Team Nasarawa will next face Team Yobe on Sunday, August 31, before completing their group stage fixtures against another opponent on Monday, September 1.
With momentum already building, the state’s athletes are confident of improving their medal haul as the Games, reserved for athletes under the age of 15, continue.
The Nasarawa contingent, numbering 278 athletes, sports secretaries, referees, and officials, departed Lafia on Tuesday, August 26, to compete in 22 sporting events.
More than 6,000 athletes and coaches are currently in Asaba for the two-week multi-sports festival, which will climax on September 7, 2025.
