Tinubu Pledges Greater Investment in Sports at 9th National Youth Games in Asaba

President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to sports development, describing it as a unifying force for the nation.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Public Communication and former Minister of Youth and Sports, Sunday Dare, the President declared open the 9th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba on Friday. He emphasized that sports remain a vital tool for national cohesion and pledged increased investment to nurture young talents.

Tinubu commended the leadership of the National Youth Commission under Chairman Shehu Dikko and Director General Bukola Olopade, whom he described as seasoned sports administrators capable of driving Nigeria’s sporting excellence. He also highlighted the NYG as a platform for discovering future stars who continue to make the country proud locally and internationally.

The President expressed appreciation to the government and people of Delta State for hosting the 9th edition of the Games.

Representing Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly reiterated the state’s commitment to supporting athletes and upgrading sports infrastructure. He described Delta as a “home of champions,” proud to produce many athletes who represent Nigeria globally.

“This is more than just a sporting event,” he said. “It is a celebration of our youth, unity, and the promising future of our nation in sports.”

Olopade, the NSC DG, noted that significant progress had been made under the commission’s current leadership, while Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee, Onoriode Oborevwori, assured that Delta had prepared extensively to give over 6,000 athletes a memorable experience.

The opening ceremony featured a colorful parade, calisthenics, musical performances, and the hoisting of national and state flags by military personnel. However, despite the fanfare, the event recorded a relatively low turnout, with only about a third of the 23,000-capacity stadium filled.