The 9th edition of the National Youth Games in Asaba has entered a thrilling phase with 19 states already on the medal table.

As at the latest count, Edo State leads with an impressive 11 gold, 5 silver, and 3 bronze medals, followed closely by Lagos State with 9 gold, 4 silver, and 2 bronze. Delta State, host and defending champions of the last eight editions, sit in third place with 2 gold, 2 silver, and 5 bronze medals. Other gold-winning states include Akwa Ibom with 2 gold and 1 bronze, Niger State with 1 gold and 2 silver, Kwara State with 1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze, and Cross River State with 1 gold.

Meanwhile, several states have recorded important silver and bronze finishes. FCT Abuja has secured 3 silver and 2 bronze medals, Oyo State 3 silver and 1 bronze, Plateau State 2 silver, Osun State 2 silver and 3 bronze, Anambra State 1 silver and 2 bronze, and Bayelsa State 1 silver and 1 bronze. Imo State and Ogun State have 1 silver medal each, while Nasarawa (3 bronze), Bauchi (1 bronze), Kaduna (1 bronze), and Rivers State (1 bronze) complete the tally.

The leadership of the National Sports Commission, Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, congratulated the 19 states for their performances so far. They also encouraged other states yet to enter the medal table to push harder, while charging those already on it to strive for more laurels.

According to the Commission, the National Youth Games remains Nigeria's grassroots sports festival and a critical factory for discovering young athletes who will be nurtured and trained for future representation of Nigeria at continental and global stages. Beyond medals, the Games foster unity, discipline, and the future of Nigerian sports.

With several days of competition still ahead, more states are expected to join the medal hunt as Asaba continues to buzz with thrilling action, youthful energy, and national pride.

Dr. (Mrs.) Kehinde Ajayi, FCAI, ANIPR

Director (Information and PR)

September 1, 2025