Tinubu Affirms Sports as a Powerful Tool to Foster National Unity in Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has emphasized that his administration recognizes the immense power of sports as a unifying tool that continues to strengthen Nigeria’s identity as one people.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Public Communication, and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare, the President officially declared open the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba on Friday. Tinubu reiterated his government’s firm commitment to expanding investments in sports development, describing it as a key driver for youth empowerment, national integration, and talent discovery.

President Tinubu commended the leadership of the National Youth Commission (NYC), led by Chairman Shehu Dikko, and the Director General, Bukola Olopade. He expressed confidence that their wealth of experience as sports administrators would help Nigeria maintain a strong global presence in athletics and other competitive sports.

Highlighting the importance of the National Youth Games, Tinubu described the competition as a vital platform for discovering, grooming, and showcasing new talents who have continued to bring honor to Nigeria in both national and international sporting events.

The President also expressed appreciation to the government and people of Delta State for hosting the ninth edition of the prestigious youth sporting event, praising the state’s dedication to sports excellence.

Delta State Reaffirms Commitment to Sports Development

The Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering commitment to empowering young athletes, improving sports infrastructure, and positioning Delta as a hub for sports development in Nigeria.

Oborevwori proudly declared Delta State as the “home of champions,” stressing that the state has consistently produced top athletes who represent Nigeria at both local and global sporting competitions.

“Today marks a remarkable moment for Delta State as we welcome athletes, officials, and visitors from across the federation to Asaba for the 9th National Youth Games. This gathering is more than a sports festival—it is a celebration of our young people, our unity, and the bright future of Nigerian sports that binds us together as one nation,” Oborevwori said.

National Sports Commission Applauds Progress

Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, revealed that significant progress had been achieved under the leadership of Chairman Shehu Dikko. According to him, the 9th National Youth Games served as a golden opportunity for discovering, nurturing, and celebrating the next generation of Nigerian sports stars.

In his welcome address, the Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, assured that Delta State was fully prepared to deliver a memorable hosting experience. He confirmed that modern facilities had been provided to cater to the needs of over 6,000 athletes participating in the competition.

A Colorful Opening Ceremony

The opening ceremony featured the hoisting of the Nigerian national flag, the Delta State flag, and the official 9th NYG Games flag by military officers. The event was further spiced with colorful displays, including calisthenics performances, music from top artists, and parade marches by various state contingents.

Despite the electrifying atmosphere, the stadium witnessed a low turnout as only about one-third of the 23,000-capacity arena was filled with spectators. Nonetheless, the ceremony was marked by joy, fanfare, and optimism for Nigeria’s sporting future.