Asaba 2022: Dare commends Delta state over successful hosting

Sports Minister Sunday Dare has thanked everyone that was involved in the organization and hosting of the 21^st national sports festival, saying they all gave their all.

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Dare mentioned this while hosting journalist at the Cyson hotel in Asaba on Friday afternoon.

The minister revealed that the Asaba 2022 tournament was hurriedly put together in order for  the calendar to be adjusted and return to it’s original format after the delay in 2020 by Covid.

“We were able to sustain momentum after the festival in Edo. We made sure we did this festival in 18 months to adjust the calendar and after then, we will return to our calendar in April,” he said.

The minister was glad that all the athletes got to participate at the festival and displayed skills that puts them in contention to represent the nation.

“More importantly, I think that 14,000 athletes getting the opportunity to compete, notwithstanding some of the challenges, is important. They will go from here, getting better, getting recognised and making up a part of our Team Nigeria that will go forth from here,” he said.

“Overall, we have seen all stakeholders come together to make this happen. In sports, nothing is a hundred percent, but you try to make it as close to a hundred percent as it can get and when you see your challenges, you try and fix it,” he said.

“My impression is that this by and large, has been a commendable effort. The athletes have kept their eye at the tip of the sphere, the journalists have focused more on the essence of being here. The Delta State government have provided the resources neccessary for this to happen. We thank all the 36 states, their governors, and the FCT.” he said.

The minister then promised that the ministry will try to get things better the next time the festival comes into town.