Plateau State has officially sent forth its contingent to the 9th edition of the National Youth Games, holding in Asaba, Delta State, from 26th August to 8th September 2024.
On behalf of Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the Commissioner for Youths and Sports Development, Hon. Musa Ibrahim Ashoms, represented by the Director of Sports, Prof. Ezra Gunen, bid the team farewell at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium, Jos.
Prof. Gunen charged the athletes to be worthy ambassadors of the state and to strive for excellence. “Go over, dominate, win medals, and see what the Governor will do for you,” he encouraged. He also acknowledged the government’s full support, noting that the athletes and officials had been provided with complete kits and allowances.
The Plateau contingent comprises 192 members, including 122 athletes, 26 coaches, 8 sports secretaries, logistics staff, state delegates, and security personnel. They will be competing in 25 sports: Athletics, Para-athletics, Badminton, Beach Volleyball, Boxing, Chess, Darts, Cycling, Male Football, Golf, Gymnastics, Tennis, Female Hockey, Table Tennis, and Judo.
Other events include Karate, Kickboxing, Kungfu, Kokowa, Powerlifting, Scrabble, Squash, Taekwondo, Weightlifting, and Wrestling.
With improved preparations this year, expectations are high that Team Plateau will surpass last year’s medal haul of 4 gold, 3 silver, and 8 bronze, which placed them 15th overall.
The contingent departed for Delta State on Tuesday morning, 26th August 2025, brimming with confidence and determination.