Five states have registered their desire to host the following National Sports Festival, according to Sunday Dare, minister of youth and sports development, thesportsbay.com reports.
He made the remarks during the opening ceremony of the 21st National Sports Festival in Asaba, Delta State.
Dare expressed his excitement even more in light of how well-prepared many States were to compete for gold at the “Nigerian Olympics.”
“My sight and focus is on the 10 days as I am looking for talents to deploy into the national teams for the next Olympics, France 2024.
“My immediate concern is searching for young talents to represent Nigeria at international competitions.
“I thank the Delta State Government for the adequate preparations made for the Festival because they did not have the entire 24 months to be ready rather they had 16 months.
“A lot of credit should go to the Government, which for me, is one of the highlights of the Games and also, all the participating States of the Federation.”
“We have five states that have registered their intention to host the next NSF, so, it will be interesting to see how the bidding process goes.
“Come December 10, when we will announce the winner, we will also announce the next host of the Festival, the best state will win,” Dare said.
He also visited athletes who are currently participating in the table tennis events at the Indoor sports hall of the Stephen Keshi International stadium Asaba.
“I have never hidden my undying passion for the Paralympians knowing fully well that there is ability in disability. They have won so many laurels for this country and there is no better way to motivate them than to be seen in their midst. It will go a very long way in lifting their spirits.”
The Minister watched the games between Ogun and Kwara (female doubles), Nasarawa and Ondo (female), Delta and Kwara(male) and a number of other Table Tennis games.
