Over 6,000 athletes set to compete as Delta hosts for the third consecutive time
The 9th edition of the National Youth Games officially got underway on Friday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, Asaba, with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declaring the event open.
Represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications and former Minister of Sports, Mr. Sunday Dare, President Tinubu described the Games as a “veritable platform for discovering and nurturing talents” who have gone on to represent Nigeria at local, continental, and international levels.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, stressing that sports remain a unifying force for nation building.
“Very recently, we witnessed the President, alongside the First Lady, cheering the Super Falcons and the D’Tigress. That show of support underscores the administration’s firm commitment to continue investing in sports and strengthening development across the country,” Mr. Dare stated.
The President commended the National Sports Commission under the leadership of Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade for their efforts in promoting youth and grassroots sports. He also lauded the Delta State Government for once again hosting the Games, noting that Asaba has gradually become the hub of sports competitions in Nigeria.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, described the Youth Games as a celebration of Nigeria’s youth, unity, and future.
He highlighted Delta’s proud sporting tradition, producing legends such as Stephen Keshi, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Blessing Okagbare, and Ese Brume. According to him, the state has sustained this record through heavy investments in world-class facilities, youth empowerment initiatives, and grassroots competitions.
“Hosting this Games for the third time in a row is proof of our commitment to grassroots sports. We believe in catching them young, giving our youth the platform to excel and bring glory to Nigeria,” Governor Oborevwori added.
Chairman of the Main Organising Committee and Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized that the Youth Games are central to building a strong pathway linking grassroots talent to elite performance and podium success.
On his part, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, assured participants of a memorable experience, citing upgraded facilities, smooth logistics, and a welcoming environment.
Since its establishment in 2013, the National Youth Games has grown into a vital platform for talent discovery and fostering national unity. Delta State, hosting for the third consecutive time, has dominated the event by winning all eight previous editions.
This year, more than 6,000 athletes from across the country are competing in 37 sports disciplines. Team Bayelsa State, led by Acting Director of Sports, Mr. Andrew Aye, arrived Asaba with a strong contingent of 303 athletes who will compete in 34 sports—comprising eight team sports and 26 individual events—supported by 125 officials, including coaches and secretaries.
