The North-central zonal eliminations for the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta state, kicked off on Thursday, August 29, 2024, in Jos. Athletes from seven states – Plateau, Niger, Abuja, Kwara, Nasarawa, Benue, and Niger – gathered at the Police Field, eager to compete for a spot in the prestigious games.
After a thorough screening process, the teams headed to their respective venues to face off against each other.
A delighted Plateau State Director of Sports, Prof. Ezra Gunen, was happy that all states from the zone were present and assured them of a smooth sailing elimination game.
He went further to thank the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang for his continuous support to sports and youth development in the state.
Thursday’s events saw Plateau lose to Niger 1-10 and Abuja in turn lose to Plateau 4-9 in the female basketball.
In the male basketball, it was Kwara 10-5 Abuja, Plateau 4-11 Nasarawa, Abuja 19-2 Niger, Kwara 10-2 Nasarawa, Plateau 2-16 Niger, Nasarawa 4-8 Abuja.
The handball male event had only one game that saw Plateau beat Nasarawa 28-6.
In football male, Abuja beat Nasarawa 1 – 0, while in volleyball female, Benue beat Nasarawa by 3 sets to 0.
On Friday, August 30, the schedule included hockey matches between Plateau and Nasarawa, football matches between Plateau and Benue/Niger, and beach volleyball matches between Plateau and Benue.