Team Lagos are on course for a historic triumph at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, after amassing 69 medals (35 gold, 18 silver and 16 bronze) at the end of day six.
The National Youth Games, introduced in 2013 by the Federal Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, is Nigeria’s foremost grassroots sports talent discovery platform for athletes under 15.
Trailing Lagos in the medal standings are Team Edo with 23 gold, nine silver and 14 bronze (46 total), while hosts Team Delta—perennial winners of the Games—sit third with 14 gold, 17 silver and 20 bronze (51 total).
Lagos has dominated the swimming and gymnastics events, winning 19 gold in swimming and another 4 gold in gymnastics. The state also clinched gold in boys’ volleyball, with the girls’ team aiming to replicate the feat in their final on Thursday. More finals in female hockey, football, athletics, basketball, cycling, handball, and combat sports could further boost Lagos’ tally.
Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, praised the athletes, noting that the results validate Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s investments in sports infrastructure and youth development.
“The multiple gold medals reaffirm Lagos State’s leadership in swimming in Nigeria. This success reflects the resources and support the government has provided, and we are seeing the manifestation of that investment,” Fatodu said.
With three days of competition left, Lagos will look to hold off challenges from Edo and Delta to claim a rare victory in a Games historically dominated by the hosts.
Over 5,000 athletes from 36 states and the FCT are competing across 30 sports, with the Games continuing to serve as a springboard for future Olympians and continental champions.
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