..We have created a database of athletes- Ekweremadu
Nsukka Local Government Area has won the 2024 Enugu Under-15 Youth Games with a total of 43 medals, comprising 21 Gold medals, 11 Silver amd 11 bronze, taking home the First winners’ cash prize of One million naira only.
Oji-River Local Government Area took the second position with 33 medals (14 Gold medals, 12 Silver and 7 Bronze) taking home a cash prize of Five hundred thousand niara only while Enugu North took third position and went home with a sum of Three hundred thousand naira.
Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Games, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports ,Lloyd Ekweremadu, reiterated the State Government’s commitment in Sports development.
He expressed happiness that the Games were successful ,assuring that they will improve in all areas in future organizations . He announced that they created a database of athletes for easy tracking and development.
On talent hunt, the Commissioner
said they set up a scouting Committee which went round sports to sports,event to event selecting talents , especially those who won in their own events
Ekweremadu , said in terms of screening process, they were able to build a database of athletes that they can continue to track their progress and ensure they continue to develop.
On invite of athletes to camp for preparation for the national Youth Games , he said the scouting committee will submit their report and those selected will be invited to camp.
He urged young athletes to be dedicated saying, “if you have a talent, don’t give up, continue to work hard for there is a reward for hard work.★
“Today, I am pleased to say that you have all exceeded our expectations. Each of you has displayed not only your athletic abilities but also the values of discipline sportsmanship, and teamwork Whether you walk away with a medal or not, you are all winners in our eyes,” he said..
He noted that the primary goal of the games was to provide a platform for selecting the best athletes who will represent Enugu State at the National Youth Games, scheduled to take place next month in Asaba, Delta State.
“We have witnessed outstanding performances, and I am confident that those chosen will make our state proud on the national stage
According to the Commissioner, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Under-15 Youth Games epitomize everything the State sought to achieve in the sports sector.
He said the CCCC’s partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in driving the growth and development of sports in Enugu State “Your support has not only empowered our young athletes but has also contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of our communities,” Ekweremadu said
As we bring these games to a close, let us remember that this is not just the end of a competition, but Beginning of a new era for sports in Enugu State The experiences, friendships, and lessons learned here will serve as a foundation for even greater achievements in the future.
He encouraged the young athletes to continue striving for excellence “Keep pushing your limits, dream big and never forget the values you have learned during these games.
Pix- Gold medalist Chinazaekpe
Speaking with newsmen, an Athlete,a student of Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Nsukka, Ekumadu Judith Chizaramekpere who won Gold medals in 100meters race, 200 meters race and 4*100 meters Relay race, expressed joy for her successes. She said her School supported her and she has participated in many competitions and won. She expressed the desire to represent Nigeria in future
.
The Head of Personal management, Nsukka Local Government,Mrs Ugwoke Martina , expressed happiness for their victory. She said they prepared for the games. and they will continue to work hard to maintain the lead .She said they will motivate and celebrate the athletes when they come back.