9th National Youth Games Begin in Asaba
The 9th National Youth Games officially started on Friday at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu declared the Games open, but he was represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, Mr Sunday Dare, who is also a former Minister of Sports.
In his speech, President Tinubu said the Youth Games are a great way to find and support young sports talents who later go on to represent Nigeria in local, African, and world competitions.
He said his government is committed to developing sports in Nigeria, adding that sports help bring people together as one nation.
“Recently, we saw the President and the First Lady supporting the Super Falcons and D’Tigress. This shows how serious the government is about sports and youth development,” Mr Dare said.
The President praised the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Hon. Bukola Olopade, for promoting youth and grassroots sports. He also thanked the Delta State Government for hosting the Games, saying Asaba is becoming the sports capital of Nigeria.
When declaring the Games open, President Tinubu wished the athletes success and hoped the best teams and players would shine.
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, was represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor. He said the event was a celebration of Nigerian youth, unity, and the country’s future.
He spoke about Delta State’s strong history in sports, producing stars like Stephen Keshi, Jay-Jay Okocha, Blessing Okagbare, and Ese Brume. He said the state continues to invest in sports facilities and youth programmes.
“This is the third time we are hosting the Games in a row. It shows our strong support for grassroots sports. We believe in giving young people the chance to succeed and bring honour to Nigeria,” he said.
The Chairman of the Main Organising Committee and Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, said the Youth Games help young athletes grow and reach top-level performance.
Also speaking, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and head of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr Onoriode Oborevwori, promised a great experience for everyone.
“Asaba is ready – with better facilities, smooth organisation, and a friendly atmosphere. This will be more than just a sports event – it will be a memorable time,” he said.
The National Youth Games started in 2013. It is meant to discover young talents and promote unity across Nigeria. Delta State is hosting the Games for the third time in a row and has won all eight previous editions.
This year, more than 6,000 athletes from across Nigeria are taking part in 37 different sports, all hoping to win medals.
