Benin City, Nigeria — Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, has applauded Team Edo for their remarkable outing at the 9th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State, where the team finished third overall.
Receiving the victorious athletes at the Government House, Benin City, alongside his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, Governor Okpebholo praised the team’s resilience, talent, and dedication, describing their performance as a source of pride and honour for Edo State.
In recognition of their achievement, the Governor announced a ₦10 million cash reward for the athletes and charged them to remain focused and aim even higher in future competitions.
“I congratulate our team for putting in their best and securing third position with 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze medals. This is an impressive achievement, but I challenge you to do more and bring home the first position in the next edition.
Edo deserves the top spot, and with commitment and discipline, we will get there,” Governor Okpebholo said.
The Governor further assured that his administration would continue to invest in sports development, while encouraging the athletes to train harder and stay disciplined.
“For your efforts, I am pleased to reward you with ₦10 million. I believe that with harder training and stronger dedication, greater victories await Edo,” he added.
Sports Commission Applauds Governor’s Support
Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Mr Amadin Desmond Enabulele, commended Governor Okpebholo for his unwavering support for sports development, noting that the improved welfare and motivation of athletes under his administration contributed significantly to Team Edo’s success.
“We thank His Excellency for providing the enabling environment for sports to thrive. For the first time, Team Edo returned with 33 gold, 18 silver, and 28 bronze medals — an unprecedented feat in the history of our participation in the National Youth Games.
The motivation came from the Governor’s commitment to the wellbeing of our athletes,” Enabulele stated.
Presenting the second runner-up trophy to the Governor, Enabulele expressed confidence that with continued government support, Edo athletes would surpass their current record and position the State as a dominant force in national sports.
About the Games
The 9th National Youth Games, hosted in Asaba, Delta State, brought together young athletes from across Nigeria in various sporting events. Team Edo distinguished itself as one of the top-performing contingents, reinforcing the State’s growing reputation as a powerhouse in Nigerian sports.
