The governor of Anambra, Charles Soludo, has urged the athletes representing the state at the ninth National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta, to aim for the top spot in all the events they will participate in.

Mr Soludo gave the charge at the team’s camp inside the Bishop Obiefuna Retreat Centre on Thursday while addressing the athletes shortly before their departure for the games.

The governor, who was represented by his wife, Nonye Soludo, expressed confidence in the ability of the athletes and officials to make the state proud at the event in terms of performance and behaviour.

“With the looks on your faces, I can tell that you are ready for the games. You have been making Anambra proud since the inception of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration.

“In 2023 you returned with 22 medals and in 2024 you climbed to eighth place overall with an impressive haul of 26 medals, including nine golds.

“Now, we are rooting for you and praying that you emerge at the top of the medals table at the end of the event because Anambra is always number one. We trust and know what you can do, and we are waiting for the medals. I wish you the best of luck,” he said.

Team Anambra departed Awka for the games in Asaba, with a contingent of 126, comprising 81 athletes and 45 officials.

Anambra will not feature in team events at the games following its inability to secure any slot at the South-East Zonal Elimination competition in Enugu.

The team will be relying on individual efforts of the athletes in their various events.

No fewer than 6,382 athletes and officials are expected to attend the games scheduled to be held between August 29 and September 6.

(NAN)