Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State has praised Team Edo for their outstanding performance at the 9th National Youth Games. The state is currently leading the medals table with a commanding haul of 19 gold, 5 silver, and 3 bronze medals.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Governor Okpebholo described the team’s early success as “impressive,” congratulating the athletes for securing the top spot in the competition’s initial stages. He also assured the athletes, coaches, and officials of the government’s continued support to help them maintain their momentum throughout the remainder of the Games.
Team Edo’s dominance has been fueled by exceptional performances in several sports, particularly weightlifting, gymnastics, swimming, and karate. The state’s female weightlifters delivered a clean sweep, winning all nine available gold medals in their category. Favour Cornelius (44kg), Esther Amarachi Chijoke (48kg), and Beauty Akpore (53kg) each contributed three gold medals.
In gymnastics, Wisdom Ikede secured three gold medals, while Aliu Solomon added another gold and Ocheke Excel claimed a silver. Swimmer Tissa Precious won two gold medals in the 50m freestyle, and the Edo 4x100m relay team took home a silver. The state also earned a gold in karate, thanks to Desmond Izevbuwa Eroirewaen’s victory in the 50kg male kumite.
The governor concluded by reiterating the state government’s commitment to providing facilities, training, and welfare support for young athletes, emphasizing its dedication to strengthening grassroots sports development. He urged Team Edo to remain focused as they compete in the 37 sporting categories at the Games.
