By Ebi Nieketien/Ifeanyi Uwagwu
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has described Delta State as the headquarters of sports in Nigeria, commending the state’s consistent role in nurturing talents and hosting sporting events.
The President, who was represented by the Special Adviser on Public Communications and Orientation, Sunday Dare, made the remark yesterday while declaring open the 9th edition of the National Youth Games in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
He noted that the Games, which brought together over 6,000 athletes under the age of 15, remained a vital platform for discovering and developing young talents who go on to represent the country at national and international levels.
According to the President, “Since we started the National youth games, the National youth games has been the very source of the talents that has represented our country locally, nationally, continentally and internationally. The national youth games is therefore very important and significant.
‘’ As we gather here for the next two weeks, over 6,000 young athletes 15 years downwards to compete in the spirit of sportsmanship, we believe that several young talents in football, field and track, boxing and several other sports will emerge, they will be fared into our federations and from there they will be nurtured and trained and up -skilled to represent this country. I pray and hope that the best state with the best athletes win.’’.
Tinubu also praised the exploits of the Super Falcons and D’Tigress, stressing that their recent achievements were proof of Nigeria’s resilience in sports and a reflection of government’s commitment to supporting sports.
While commending the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, and other seasoned administrators for their dedication to sports development, Tinubu expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori and the people of Delta State for hosting the Games.
“Delta has gradually become the headquarters of sports in Nigeria, and we thank you sincerely for hosting this 9th edition of the National Youth Games,” he said.
In his remarks, the representative of Delta State Governor, and Speaker, Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, said the National Youth Games was more than sports but a celebration of young people, unity and a prosperous future.
In his words, ‘’Sports speaks a language that goes beyond tribe, religion, or background. It brings us together as one people with shared dreams and visions. Our people are very passionate about sports. It is part of who we are.
‘’Over the years we have built a record as the home of champions. From athletics to football, to boxing and basketball, Delta has consistently produced stars who shine at the national, continental and global level’’
Highlighting the state’s dedication to youth empowerment, Oborevwori said hosting the Games for the third consecutive time, and already preparing for the next edition, underscored Delta’s commitment to grassroots sports and youth development.
He urged the athletes to take the competition seriously and compete with discipline and fairness, and determined to do better in subsequent editions if results do not go their way.
On his part, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, and Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Onoriode Oborevwori, said the state was set to offer athletes and participants not just a sporting event, but a memorable experience.
He expressed gratitude to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his unwavering support and visionary leadership, which he said, has been the driving force behind every milestone the state has achieved.
