Senator Ned Munir Nwoko, Vice Chairman of the Senate Committee on Sports, represented the Senate at the official opening of the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
The Games were formally declared open on Friday, August 29, 2025, and will run through September 6, 2025, ushering in an intense contest for medals among Nigeria’s finest young athletes.
This year’s edition has recorded unprecedented participation, with 4,961 athletes, 635 coaches, 386 team officials, and 400 state delegates in attendance. These figures highlight the growing scale and national importance of the Games as a platform for youth empowerment, talent discovery, and sporting excellence.
Defending champions, Team Delta, will seek to retain their crown on home soil. However, they face tough competition from several other states determined to make their mark and stake a claim for national recognition.
According to the National Sports Commission (NSC), the Games go beyond competition:
“They represent a celebration of talent, determination, and national unity. The National Youth Games continue to serve as a breeding ground for future champions and a symbol of hope for Nigerian sports.”
Senator Nwoko’s presence at the Games reflects his deep passion for sports and youth development. Beyond his legislative role, the Senator has made history as the first Nigerian to establish a Sports University, the Sports University of Nigeria, located in Idumuje-Ugboko, Delta State. The institution, the first of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa, is dedicated to combining academics with professional sports training, nurturing well-rounded graduates who can excel in both education and athletics.
Speaking at the ceremony, Senator Nwoko reaffirmed the Senate’s commitment to grassroots sports development while also emphasizing his personal drive to use sports as a tool for national progress:
“The National Youth Games is not just about winning medals, it is about inspiring a new generation of athletes, fostering unity, and unlocking the limitless potential of our youths. As a nation, we must continue to invest in sports as a tool for national growth, social cohesion, and international recognition. For me, sports is more than a passion, it is a mission to empower and transform lives.”
The 9th National Youth Games promises thrilling performances, new discoveries, and the reinforcement of Nigeria’s longstanding commitment to nurturing sporting talents for future success.
