From Abel Leonard, Lafia
Team Nasarawa has defied the odds to qualify for four sporting events at the North Central Zonal Eliminations of the 9th National Youth Games, leaving heavyweights in shock and setting their sights on Asaba, Delta State, where the main games will hold from August 26 to September 6, 2025.
The state secured spots in Boys’ Football, Boys’ and Girls’ Hockey, and Girls’ Volleyball, after three days of fierce contests in Ilorin, Kwara State, between August 16th and 18th 2025.
In football, Nasarawa’s youngsters displayed grit and class, silencing the host state, Kwara, with a slim but decisive 1-0 victory in their opener. They went on to overpower Plateau State in their second outing before forcing Niger to a 1-1 stalemate in their last game. The results saw Team Nasarawa finish top of the table with seven points, ahead of Plateau in second place.
The hockey teams also shone brightly. The boys battled their way to a second-place finish behind Niger, while the girls took charge of their category, claiming the top spot in commanding fashion.
Not done, the girls’ volleyball team wrapped up the qualification spree in style, outclassing Team Benue to emerge champions of the zone.
Head of Public Relations at the Nasarawa State Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, Eche Amos, could not hide his delight over the performance.
“Against all odds, our athletes proved their worth. Qualifying in four major events is a huge achievement. They have done the state proud and shown that resilience and determination truly pay off,” He said.
The state’s 154-member delegation, comprising athletes, coaches, medical staff, officials, and security personnel, had departed Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital, on August 16 for the qualifiers.
According to Amos, preparations will now shift into top gear ahead of the Asaba showdown.
“We are not going to relax. The athletes will return home and intensify training because the National Youth Games is the real stage. Our target is to make a lasting impression in Delta State,” he added.
Team Nasarawa featured in five sports at the zonal eliminations, football, hockey, volleyball, basketball, and handball but picked up tickets in four.
With the qualifiers done, all eyes are now on Asaba, where the state’s youngsters will seek to turn their regional success into national glory.
