BY CHIKA KWAMBA
AHEAD of the 9th National Youth Games, business and commercial activities have come alive at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
The National Games, scheduled to commence today, August 26, and run through September 6, have already attracted traders from across the 36 states of the federation.
As of yesterday morning, traders were seen displaying their commodities and setting up stalls in readiness for the influx of athletes, officials, and visitors.
Some of the items on display included; food, sportswear, souvenirs, beverages, shoes, jewelry, beddings, wears, herbal drinks, and other essential goods, reflecting the economic buzz the event is bringing to the host city.
Speaking with some of the traders, from Lagos State, Mr. Chinweike Nwaeze, an underwear seller, revealed that he was reluctant to attend until his sister convinced him.
“At first, I doubted if it was worth the stress, but on getting here, I was amazed at the number of traders. So far, business has been going well; the patronage has been massive, and I believe before the end of the games, I will make more sales,” he said.
From Kaduna, Abubakar Isa, a jewelry seller and regular trader at the fairs, expressed his satisfaction, noting that business has consistently boomed for him each time he attends the Youth Games in Delta State. He further applauded the Delta State Government for hosting such events that drive commercial growth.
Similarly, Mr. Eze Nebolisa, a trader dealing in men’s wear and shoes, commended the government for sustaining the games, which he described as an avenue for traders to expand their markets beyond their states.
“This is not my first time coming. If business was not favorable, I wouldn’t waste my time coming down here every year,” Nebolisa averred.
With the games set to draw thousands of participants and spectators, traders remain optimistic that commercial activities will continue to thrive throughout the event.
