BY JUDE OSSAI / ENUGU
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Nsukka Local Government Area has won the 2024 Enugu Under-15 Youth Games with a total of 43 medals, comprising 21 Gold medals, 11 Silver amd 11 bronze, cashing the First Winners prize of One million naira.
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Oji-River Local Government Area took the second position with 33 medals (14 Gold medals, 12 Silver and 7 Bronze) taking home a cash prize of Five hundred thousand niara only while Enugu North came third position and went home with a sum of Three hundred thousand naira.
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Speaking at the closing ceremony of the Games at Nnamdi Azikiwe Stadium, Enugu on Sunday, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Lloyd Ekweremadu, reiterated the state government’s commitment in Sports development.
Ekweremadu expressed happiness that the Games were successful, said that they would create a database of athletes for easy tracking and development.
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In terms of screening process, they were able to build a database of athletes to track their progress and ensure they continue to develop.
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On invitation of athletes to camp for preparation for the national youth games, he said the scouting committee will submit their report and those selected will be invited to camp.
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He urged young athletes to be dedicated saying, “if you have a talent, don’t give up, continue to work hard for there is a reward for hard work.
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“Today, I am pleased to say that you have all exceeded our expectations. Each of you has displayed not only your athletic abilities but also the values of discipline sportsmanship, and teamwork Whether you walk away with a medal or not, you are all winners in our eyes,” he said..
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The Sports Commissioner noted that the primary goal of the games was to provide a platform for selecting the best athletes who will represent Enugu State at the National Youth Games slated for next month in Asaba, Delta State.
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“We have witnessed outstanding performances, and I am confident that those chosen will make our state proud on the national stage
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According to the Commissioner, China Communications Construction Company (CCCC) Under-15 Youth Games epitomize everything the State sought to achieve in the sports sector.
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He said the CCCC’s partnership highlights the importance of collaboration in driving the growth and development of sports in Enugu State.
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“Your support has not only empowered our young athletes but has also contributed to the socio-economic upliftment of our communities.
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“As we bring these games to a close, let us remember that this is not just the end of a competition, but the beginning of a new era for sports in Enugu State. The experiences, friendships, and lessons learned here will serve as a foundation for even greater achievements in the future”, he stated.
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To the young athletes, Ekweremadu said, “Continue striving for excellence. Keep pushing your limits, dream big and never forget the values you have learned during these games”
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Speaking to newsmen, an Athlete, a student of Queen of the Rosary Secondary School, Nsukka, Ekumadu Judith Chizaramekpere who won Gold medals in 100 meters race, 200 meters race and 4×4 100 meters Relay race, expressed joy for her success.
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She who said she had participated in many competitions through the support of her school and won, expressed the desire to represent Nigeria in future.
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The Head of Personal Management (HPM), Nsukka Local Government Council, Mrs Ugwoke Martina expressed happiness for their victory, adding that they would continue to work hard to maintain the lead.
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