The journey to the 2023 National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, was marred by significant delays as some athletes and officials found themselves stuck in a nightmarish traffic logjam on the Benin by-pass road.
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The Seventh National Youth Games officially commenced at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, but the unfortunate traffic situation left several state contingents, including athletes, coaches, and accompanying officials from southwest states such as Lagos, Ondo, and Ogun, stranded for hours.
Reports emerged that some athletes, coaches, and officials were forced to spend the night along the Benin by-pass due to the severe congestion. The situation raised concerns that some athletes might miss their scheduled events, which were set to take place the following morning.
Expressing their frustration, one athletics coach described the experience as “terrible” during a telephone conversation with The Guardian. The lengthy traffic delay was a major setback for these young athletes who had been preparing diligently for the National Youth Games.
In the midst of this transportation ordeal, there were allegations of dissatisfaction among Delta State athletes about the conditions in their camp. However, the Delta State Sports Commission swiftly refuted these claims, denouncing them as “callous and wicked.” Chairman Tonobok Okowa emphasized the Commission’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of the athletes and officials.
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Okowa stated, “In Delta, our major priority is the welfare of the athletes and their officials. It is laughable to read such online reports that we shortchanged our athletes. I see such reports as a calculated attempt to distract Team Delta from retaining its title at the end of this National Youth Games.”
Seigha Porbeni, the head coach of Team Delta, echoed Okowa’s sentiments, asserting that funds meant for athletes would not be misappropriated. He emphasized that Chief Tonobok Okowa aimed to secure victory for the team on home soil, similar to their achievement during the National Sports Festival last year.
Porbeni clarified the age range of the athletes in the Delta camp, refuting claims made in online reports. He accused certain individuals of attempting to undermine the team’s focus and reputation by disseminating falsehoods about Chief Tonobok Okowa and Team Delta.
As the National Youth Games unfold, the athletes and officials involved are striving to overcome the challenges they’ve faced en route to Asaba and maintain their focus on achieving success in their respective events.
