6th NYG: There Is Need To Do More To Develop Athletes In Nigeria — AFN President

By Ogo Clarkson

President of the Athletics Federation of Nigeria, AFN, Chief Tonobok Okowa, has commended the 33 state that were able to participate in the just concluded 2021 ilorin 6th youth games, but urged other states to invest more in developing athletes in Nigeria.

While hosting Team Delta contingents during the victory party, AFN President who doubles as the Chairman of Delta state Sports Commission, said he wants to see stiffer challenge especially in the track and field sports not all Team Delta dominance.

“No doubt Team Delta showed her strength in athletes and other sports, but I want a situation were other states will produce good challengers in age grade to develop and represent Nigeria in bigger stages.”

The AFN President whose state has won the youth games for a record six consecutive times since 2013, also appreciated the effort of the Ministry of sports, adding that he is working out plans where Nigeria athletes can gain scholarship to achool and as well in developing their God given talents.

“I am already working on modalities to support our athletes to secure quality education and to develop their God given human capacity”.

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He said the youth games or sports festival is beyond just winning medals rather it’s primary aim is the discovery and grooming of young talent to international level.

He advised against age cheat as he urged the athletics family to consider beyond winning medals.

He appealed to all states to develop their athletes as a way of supporting the Ministry of Sports as well taking the children from the street.