Alhaji Bode Durotoye, Director, Grassroots Sports Development, Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports, has said that Enugu and Gombe states have been fined the sum of N2.5m each, for being absent at the ongoing National Youth Games (NYG) in Ilorin.
Addressing the media on Tuesday, at the media centre, Durotoye stated that there was an agreement on penalties among the participating states and the Ministry of Sports ahead of the games.
“Each state that failed to show up will pay the sum of N2.5m as penalty for not participating, and without consulting the organisers.
“35 states are here. Only two states; Gombe and Enugu did not participate and before they can participate in the next edition, the fine must be paid,” he said.
The director stated that 3,470 persons, including athletes, officials, coaches and media were officially registered for the 6th NYG holding at the University of Ilorin for a record fifth time.
He said that despite the controversies surrounding the hosting of this year’s edition, there was synergy between the Main Organizing Committee and the Local Organizing Committee before and during the annual championship.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalled that participating states who were at the venue on Oct. 10, 2021, the kick-off date, could not immediately secure accommodation because Unilorin was still in session.
The kick off had to be extended by three days to a new starting date of Oct. 13, pushing the games to end on Tuesday, Oct. 19.
6th NYG: Enugu, Gombe fined N2.5m each for absence, says official
