Tinubu Vows Stronger Support for Sports Development, Declares 9th National Youth Games Open

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, on Friday officially opened the 9th edition of the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to harnessing sports as a tool for national unity, youth empowerment, and global recognition.

Speaking through his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, the President described sports as a powerful force for social cohesion and a gateway for young Nigerians to achieve international excellence.

‘From these young athletes, future national and global champions will emerge,’ Tinubu said.

‘Our government is dedicated to providing the right structures, facilities, and policies to help them grow into world-class ambassadors. Sports is more than recreation—it is a unifying force and a source of national pride.’

He pledged continued investment in grassroots sports development, assuring that the National Sports Commission and other relevant agencies would be empowered to support young talents across the country.

‘This administration will not relent in investing in our youth. With discipline, hard work, and the right environment, our young athletes will carry the green-white-green to podiums around the world,’ he added.

Welcoming athletes, coaches, and officials, Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, commended the Games for promoting unity through healthy competition.

He assured participants of Delta’s readiness to host a successful championship and urged all involved to uphold fairness and integrity.

‘The National Youth Games have produced stars who now represent Nigeria internationally. We are proud to host again, and Delta is committed to providing a safe, competitive, and memorable experience,’ Oborevwori said.