President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has applauded the National Youth Games as a key platform for unearthing and nurturing young talents who have gone on to represent Nigeria at both continental and global levels.
Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communications, and former Minister of Sports, Sunday Dare, the President declared the Games open over the weekend at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to the development of sports, describing it as a powerful tool for national unity and social cohesion.
“Events like the National Youth Games serve as a launching pad for tomorrow’s champions,” Dare said on behalf of the President. “We are committed to providing the necessary support for our youth to thrive in sports.”
The President also cited his and the First Lady’s visible support for national teams such as the Super Falcons and D’Tigress as a demonstration of his administration’s continued investment in Nigerian sports.
Tinubu commended the National Sports Commission, led by Mallam Shehu Dikko and Bukola Olopade, for their sustained efforts in promoting grassroots development. He also lauded the Delta State Government for consistently hosting the Games, describing Asaba as Nigeria’s emerging centre for sporting excellence.
In his address, Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor welcomed participants and described the Games as a celebration of Nigeria’s youth, unity, and future.
He highlighted the state’s legacy of producing sports icons such as Stephen Keshi, Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha, Blessing Okagbare, and Ese Brume.
He added that Delta’s success stems from years of strategic investment in sports infrastructure, youth empowerment, and grassroots competitions.
“Hosting these Games for the third consecutive time is proof of our commitment to grassroots sports. We believe in catching them young and giving our youth the platform to excel and bring glory to Nigeria,” the governor said.
Director-General of the National Sports Commission and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Bukola Olopade, emphasized that the Youth Games play a crucial role in building a pathway from community-level competition to elite athletic success.
Echoing that sentiment, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and head of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, assured participants of a memorable experience.
“Asaba is not just hosting a sporting event it’s delivering a world-class experience, with upgraded facilities, efficient logistics, and a welcoming environment,” he said.
Established in 2013, the National Youth Games were created to foster unity and promote early talent discovery across Nigeria. Delta State, the host for the third consecutive edition, has remained a dominant force in the competition, having won all eight previous editions.
According to information gathered by WorldClass247News,, this year’s Games feature over 6,000 young athletes from across the country, competing in 37 different sports.