Ilorin is buzzing with youthful energy as over 1,200 athletes and officials from the North Central region gather for the zonal elimination of team sports ahead of the 9th National Youth Sports Festival (NYSF) slated for Delta State later this year.
The event was originally scheduled for Nasarawa State, but Kwara stepped in at the last minute to host after Nasarawa failed to meet requirements.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq approved full sponsorship of the eliminations, earning praise from organisers.
“We are immensely grateful to Governor Abdulrazaq for saving the day. Our impression so far has been very positive,” said Saka Akeem, Zonal Coordinator.
Nine sports – Abula, Cricket, Handball, Beach Volleyball, Baseball/Softball, Basketball, Volleyball, Football, Rugby, and Hockey – will be contested, with only two finalists per sport advancing to the festival in Delta.
Participation from Benue State remains uncertain, but Nasarawa, the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Plateau, Niger, Kogi, and hosts Kwara are confirmed.
Screening of athletes, pegged at 15 years and below, began Saturday with matches set to run through Monday.
Kwara’s Director of Sports, Coach Ibrahim Bako, assured smooth organisation despite the late notice.
> “Kwara is always prepared, and that’s why the state leads in North Central and ranks among the top five nationwide at the NYSF,” he said.
Sports experts say the eliminations are more than just a qualifying series.
They serve as a platform for talent discovery, youth development, and regional pride, especially for North Central states where opportunities for structured sports are limited.
The festival has a strong track record of producing stars who later represent Nigeria on the international stage.
For Ilorin, the event also means an economic boost, with hotels, restaurants, and transport operators already recording increased patronage.
By giving teenagers across the zone exposure to national-level contests, the eliminations are expected to inspire a new generation of athletes while strengthening grassroots sports development in the region.
