Youth Games : Non approval of funds keep Imo contingent stranded in Owerri
By Everest Ezihe, Owerri
There’s serious indication that the hope of Imo State contingent participating in the ongoing National Youth Games (NYG), tagged “Asaba 2024” is dimmed as the team is still stranded at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri a day after the commencement of the national sporting fiesta following allegation of non release of fund to the team by the State government, as at the time of this report.
It’s pertinent to inform that the biannual national event commenced yesterday, Tuesday 10th September with arrival and accreditation but as at today Wednesday the contingent were seen stranded at the state capital while complaining of lack of money for the trip.
Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, the State Commissioner for Youth and Sports is said to be busy trying to ensure that the team leaves the state possibly today (Wednesday) as he could neither pick his calls nor reply text messages sent to him concerning the issue, that may likely be a serious embarrassment to the state, if eventually the state renegades on participation.
Close sources in the office of the State Director of Sports as well as the Ministry authoritatively informed Newstap.com.ng that the proposal for financing of the needed logistics was sent to the office of the Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma months ago.
They expressed worries why the funding is being delayed despite the importance of the national assignment just as the athletes and their officials are in dilemma that further delay might jeopardize Team Imo’s participation in the ongoing competition.
Recall that the 6th edition of the National Youth Games which is being hosted by Delta State is billed to commence on Wednesday 11, September, with an opening Ceremony, as the state contingents are expected to report to camp for accreditation at least on Tuesday, 10 September 2024.
Notable States such Rivers, Bayelsa, Akwa Ibom, Edo, Lagos, Niger, Nasarawa, Enugu, Ebonyi, Abia, Anambra, Kwara, Oyo, Ogun, Ondo, Kaduna, Bauchi, Kogi among others have reportedly arrived Asaba and settled down for the biennial sports fiesta for Nigerian Youths.
