Asaba, the vibrant capital of Delta State, Nigeria, became the epicenter of youthful energy and athletic prowess as it hosted the 9th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG) from August 26 to September 6, 2025. The event, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s sports development agenda, brought together thousands of young athletes from across the country to compete in a celebration of talent, unity, and national pride. Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, in a powerful display of leadership, reaffirmed Delta State’s readiness not only to host the 9th NYG but also to take on future editions, including the anticipated 10th edition in 2026. His administration’s commitment to sports development and youth empowerment has positioned Delta State as a beacon of excellence in Nigeria’s sporting landscape, with the 9th NYG serving as a testament to the state’s organizational capacity and passion for nurturing the next generation of champions.
A Grand Opening: The 9th National Youth Games Kick Off in Style
The 9th National Youth Games officially commenced on August 29, 2025, at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, with a spectacular opening ceremony that captivated attendees and set the tone for the week-long sporting festival. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, declared the games open, emphasizing the transformative power of sports in fostering national unity, youth empowerment, and global competitiveness. The ceremony was a vibrant showcase of Nigeria’s cultural diversity, featuring performances by top music stars, traditional dancers, and a parade of athletes representing all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. The theme of the 2025 games, “We Are the Future,” resonated deeply, encapsulating the aspirations of Nigeria’s youth and their potential to shape the nation’s sporting destiny.
Governor Oborevwori, represented by the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor, delivered a stirring address that underscored Delta’s pride in hosting the event. He highlighted the state’s long-standing tradition of producing world-class athletes and its commitment to providing a safe, competitive, and memorable experience for all participants. “The National Youth Games have over the years produced stars who now represent Nigeria internationally. We are proud to host once again, and Delta is prepared to give athletes a platform to shine,” he stated. The governor’s remarks were met with resounding applause, reflecting the enthusiasm of athletes, officials, and spectators who had gathered to witness the unfolding spectacle.
Delta’s Preparations: A Model of Excellence
The successful hosting of the 9th NYG was no small feat, requiring months of meticulous planning and coordination. Delta State’s preparations began well in advance, with the Local Organising Committee (LOC), chaired by Onoriode Oborevwori, the Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, spearheading efforts to ensure a world-class event. The state’s readiness was reaffirmed during the Joint Technical Meeting (JTM) held in Asaba, where outstanding logistical and technical issues were resolved, paving the way for a seamless championship.
Key milestones in the preparation process included the release of the official sports list on June 11, technical meetings and facility inspections in July, and the opening of the registration portal on July 14, which closed on August 13. The Games Village, designed to accommodate over 6,000 athletes and officials, opened its doors on August 26, providing a comfortable and secure environment for participants. Physical screening and technical clearance took place on August 28, ensuring that all athletes met the necessary eligibility criteria. These efforts underscored Delta’s commitment to delivering a championship that adhered to international standards while showcasing Nigeria’s sporting talent.
The state’s infrastructure played a pivotal role in its ability to host the games. Asaba, known for its modern sporting facilities, including the Stephen Keshi Stadium and other venues across the city, provided an ideal setting for the multi-sport event. Representatives from various state sports councils, including directors, coaches, and association secretaries, conducted inspections of the selected venues and expressed confidence in Delta’s preparedness. However, Onoriode Oborevwori noted that the state was unable to provide facilities for certain sports, such as Deaf Sports, Beach Volleyball, Powerlifting, Baseball, and Softball, due to their late inclusion in the program. He urged the National Sports Commission (NSC) to consider removing these events to streamline future editions.
Team Delta: A Legacy of Dominance
Delta State’s dominance in the National Youth Games is legendary, with Team Delta securing victory in every edition since the event’s inception in 2015. In preparation for the 9th NYG, over 600 athletes from the state entered closed camping at multiple locations, including St. Brigid’s School Hostel, the Delta Sports Commission Hostel, and the Hockey Hostel in Okpanam. The rigorous training regimen, overseen by experienced coaches, was designed to maintain Delta’s winning streak while nurturing young talent for national and international competitions. Festus Ohwojero, a former Director General of the Delta Sports Commission and a member of the LOC, confirmed that the final list of athletes representing Team Delta would be announced shortly before the games, heightening anticipation for another stellar performance.
The state’s success in the NYG is a reflection of its robust sports development programs, which prioritize grassroots talent identification and training. Governor Oborevwori’s administration has invested heavily in sports infrastructure, coaching, and youth empowerment initiatives, ensuring that Delta remains a powerhouse in Nigerian sports. The governor’s commitment to flawless organization was echoed by Ohwojero, who stated, “Our Governor aims for a flawless organisation because he believes that Nigerian youths deserve the best. We are leaving no stone unturned in ensuring the best organisation for this 2025 edition.”
National Significance: A Platform for Unity and Talent Discovery
The National Youth Games have emerged as a critical platform for discovering and nurturing Nigeria’s sporting talent. Since its inception, the NYG has produced athletes who have gone on to represent Nigeria on continental and global stages, including the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and African Championships. The Director-General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, emphasized the games’ role in shaping the nation’s sporting future, stating, “This is where the journey of greatness begins. Compete with heart, uphold fair play, and remember that you carry the hope of your states and the pride of the nation.”
President Tinubu, in his opening address, highlighted the broader significance of the NYG as a unifying force. “Sports is not just recreation; it is a unifying force and a driver of national pride,” he declared, pledging his administration’s continued support for grassroots sports programs through the National Sports Commission and other agencies. He expressed confidence in the leadership of Shehu Dikko, Chairman of the National Youth Commission, and Olopade, noting their efforts to elevate Nigeria’s stature in the global sporting arena.
The 9th NYG featured a wide range of sports, including athletics, basketball, football, volleyball, and others, with competitions held across multiple venues in Asaba. The South-South zonal eliminations, held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from August 15, saw fierce competition in sports such as Abula, baseball/softball, basketball, beach volleyball, cricket, football, handball, and hockey. Team Bayelsa, for instance, made an impressive showing, qualifying in multiple sports and demonstrating the depth of talent in the region.
Challenges and Opportunities: Addressing Logistical Hurdles
While the 9th NYG was a resounding success, it was not without challenges. The late inclusion of certain sports posed logistical difficulties, as Delta State lacked the necessary facilities to accommodate them. Onoriode Oborevwori’s call to streamline the sports program reflects a broader need for better coordination between the National Sports Commission and host states to ensure that future editions are sustainable and inclusive.
Another challenge was the sheer scale of the event, with over 6,000 athletes and officials converging on Asaba. The influx of participants placed significant pressure on the city’s infrastructure, including accommodation, transportation, and security. However, Delta’s experience in hosting large-scale events, coupled with the proactive measures taken by the LOC, ensured that these challenges were addressed effectively. The Games Village, for instance, provided a centralized hub for athletes, while enhanced security measures ensured the safety of all participants.
The 9th NYG also presented opportunities to showcase Delta State’s hospitality and cultural heritage. The opening ceremony, with its lineup of top music stars and traditional dancers, highlighted the state’s rich cultural tapestry, drawing praise from visitors and media alike. The presence of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) President, Isaiah Benjamin, and other journalists further amplified the event’s visibility, ensuring that the stories of Nigeria’s young athletes reached a national and international audience.
Looking Ahead: Delta’s Readiness for the 10th Edition
Governor Oborevwori’s affirmation of Delta’s readiness to host the 10th edition of the National Youth Games in 2026 signals the state’s ambition to remain a leader in Nigerian sports. While the original article erroneously referred to the 2025 event as the 10th edition, it is clear that Delta’s successful hosting of the 9th NYG has positioned it as a frontrunner for future editions. The state’s track record, coupled with its investment in sports infrastructure and youth development, makes it a natural choice for hosting major sporting events.
The governor’s vision for sports development extends beyond hosting events. His administration is focused on creating a sustainable ecosystem that supports athletes from grassroots to elite levels. This includes upgrading facilities, expanding coaching programs, and fostering partnerships with private sector stakeholders to fund sports initiatives. By hosting the NYG, Delta not only showcases its organizational capacity but also inspires other states to invest in sports as a tool for youth empowerment and national development.
The Broader Impact: Sports as a Catalyst for Change
The 9th National Youth Games transcended the realm of sports, serving as a powerful symbol of Nigeria’s resilience and potential. In a country grappling with challenges such as insecurity, economic hardship, and social division, the NYG offered a moment of unity and hope. The sight of young athletes from diverse backgrounds competing under the banner of “We Are the Future” was a reminder of the power of sports to bridge divides and inspire greatness.
The event also highlighted the importance of investing in youth. Nigeria’s population is one of the youngest in the world, with over 60% of its citizens under the age of 25. Providing opportunities for young people to excel in sports, education, and other fields is critical to harnessing this demographic dividend. The NYG, with its focus on talent discovery and development, is a step in the right direction, but sustained investment is needed to ensure that these young athletes have the resources and support to reach their full potential.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Excellence and Aspiration
The 9th National Youth Games in Asaba was a triumph of organization, talent, and national pride. Delta State, under the leadership of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, demonstrated its ability to host a world-class event that showcased Nigeria’s sporting future. The successful execution of the games, from the vibrant opening ceremony to the fierce competitions across multiple venues, underscored Delta’s readiness to take on even greater challenges, including the 10th edition in 2026.
As the curtains closed on the 9th NYG, the event left an indelible mark on the athletes, officials, and spectators who witnessed it. For Delta State, it was an opportunity to reaffirm its status as a sporting powerhouse and a beacon of hospitality. For Nigeria, it was a reminder of the boundless potential of its youth and the transformative power of sports. As Governor Oborevwori looks ahead to future editions, his vision for a stronger, more united Nigeria through sports continues to inspire hope and action across the nation.
About the Author
