The 9th National Youth Games (NYG) officially kicked off in Asaba with a dazzling opening ceremony at the Stephen Keshi International Stadium, Delta State. The event featured sparks, colors, music, dance, calisthenics, and fireworks, setting the tone for what many already describe as one of the best-organized editions in the history of the competition.
Adding to the spectacle, Team Edo drew attention during the march past with their striking red-and-white tracksuits—proudly showcasing unity and strength from the Heartbeat of the Nation.
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That confidence paid off almost immediately as Edo’s Favour Cornelius claimed three gold medals in the 44kg female weightlifting category, becoming the first athlete at Asaba 2025 to win multiple golds.
With her triple-gold haul, Cornelius has already emerged as a rising star in Nigerian weightlifting and set the pace for Team Edo on the medal table.
Edo’s medal chase did not stop there. Desmond Izevbuwa Eroirewaen secured gold in the 50kg male kumite karate event. In the male 56kg weightlifting category, Timileyin Williams clinched one silver and two bronze medals to further boost Team Edo’s tally.
In table tennis, Emmanuel Adebiyi defeated his Kaduna counterpart to advance, while Solomon Oyenekan and Daniel Okunlade also booked their spots in the round of 16 of the male category.
This year’s Games feature 6,382 athletes and officials competing in 37 sports across various venues, including the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Indoor Sports Hall, Government House Squash Court, Asaba Sports Club, Anglican Girls Grammar School, and the Commissioners’ Quarters. The Games run from August 29 to September 6, 2025, celebrating not only athletic talent but also the indomitable spirit of Nigerian youth.
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