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By Oscar Okhifo
President Bola Tinubu has said Nigeria’s quest for sustainable development cannot be realised without sports, peace and unity, as he declared open the second edition of the Niger Delta Games at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City at the weekend.
The President spoke at the colourful opening ceremony, describing sports as a strategic tool for youth empowerment, national cohesion and long-term development.
Represented by the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, Tinubu stated that genuine and lasting development can only thrive in an atmosphere of peace and unity, which sports naturally promote across communities.
He added that the Niger Delta Games offer a unique platform to showcase the region’s rich cultural diversity while nurturing young talents capable of representing Nigeria with distinction at regional and global sporting events.
“The Niger Delta Region is a region of extraordinary cultural diversity united through sports, as it remains one of the strongest and most powerful instruments of peace and unity.
“Tribe, religion, social status or cultural differences do not matter. What matters is discipline and teamwork through sporting activities in building a strong nation.
“Niger Delta youths are strong, energetic, and ready to compete. The Games are about discovering young amateur talents and grooming them into national champions who will compete internationally and bring laurels to the nation,” he said.
Declaring the Games open, Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State said the tournament represents more than competition, describing it as a symbol of possibilities and a testament to the resilience and human potential of the Niger Delta region.
According to him, sports teach discipline, build character and break down barriers of language and culture, promoting teamwork and excellence.
“To our athletes, you are the pride of the Niger Delta. You carry the dreams of millions of young people who look to you for inspiration.
“I urge you to Compete with passion and integrity and let your performance reflect the strength and determination of our people,” the governor said.
He commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for using sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment, regional integration and sustainable peace.
The Minister for Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, described the event as a celebration of youthfulness, talent and discipline, stressing that sports remain one of the most effective platforms for strengthening unity and promoting regional integration.
Momoh added that the initiative is designed to steer young people away from social vices by encouraging healthy competition and positive lifestyles.
Director-General of the National Institute of Sports (NIS) and former Deputy Governor of Edo State, Philip Shaibu, commended the organizers for sustaining the Games, noting that the initiative has opened up new pathways for youth engagement and economic diversification through sports development.
Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, disclosed that no fewer than 3,700 athletes and officials are participating in 16 sporting events at this year’s edition in Benin City.
He urged governors of the nine Niger Delta states to lend greater support to the Games to ensure the emergence of future national and international champions.
In his welcome address, Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Alabo Boma Iyare, paid tribute to the late former governor of the defunct Midwest State, Samuel Ogbemudia, for laying a solid foundation for sports development in the region.
He revealed that through a structured scouting and mentorship programme, over 600 young athletes have been discovered, with many going on to win medals at the National Sports Festival and other international competitions.