The Federal Capital Territory athletes impressed at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, finishing 8th overall with 33 medals, including 10 gold, 12 silver, and 11 bronze, across Tennis, Abula, Gymnastics, Powerlifting, Athletics, Taekwondo, Chess, and Weightlifting.
FCT Sports Director, Luka Istifanus, credited the achievement to the support of Minister Nyesom Wike, noting that improved welfare, quality kits, and cash rewards for medalists lifted morale. He said the administration’s focus on youth development is paying off, with the team climbing from 9th place last year to 8th this year.
While applauding the discipline and dedication of FCT athletes, Istifanus criticised poor officiating and the trend of states poaching athletes to boost medal counts. He stressed that the FCT remains committed to grooming homegrown talents and winning fairly.
