Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged athletes representing the state at the forthcoming Niger Delta Games to compete with determination, fairness and a strong sense of sportsmanship.
The governor gave the charge on Monday while receiving the Niger Delta Torch of Unity at Government House, Asaba, ahead of the second edition of the regional sporting event scheduled to hold in Benin City.
Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Oborevwori described the Torch of Unity as a profound symbol of peace, shared heritage and regional integration among Niger Delta states.
“I urge all participating athletes to compete with determination, fairness, and true sportsmanship, mindful of the fact that they are not just competing for medals, but serving as ambassadors of hope, unity, and progress for the entire Niger Delta,” he said.
The governor noted that the Games have grown into a credible platform for discovering and nurturing sporting talents, promoting healthy competition and strengthening brotherhood across the region. He added that sports remain a veritable tool for youth engagement, discipline and excellence, helping to steer young people away from social vices.
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to empowering youths and sustaining peace in the region, stressing that initiatives such as the Niger Delta Games provide opportunities for talented young people to flourish on national and international stages.
He commended the event organisers, Dunamis Icon Limited, for their vision and consistency in using sports as a vehicle for regional development.
The governor also acknowledged the support of the sponsor, Niger Delta Development Commission, describing its investment in the Games as a demonstration of commitment to youth empowerment, peace and unity in the Niger Delta.
Earlier, the Managing Director of Dunamis Icon Limited, Hon. Itiakpo Ikpokpo, said the Games were designed to identify and add value to emerging talents across the region. He assured the Delta State Government of adequate preparations for the competition and disclosed that over 4,000 athletes are expected to participate.
The Delta State Government, he said, remains committed to supporting the successful hosting of the Games and the realisation of its objectives.
