Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has charged athletes representing the state at the forthcoming Niger Delta Games to compete with determination, discipline and a high sense of sportsmanship.
 
The governor gave the charge yesterday while receiving the Niger Delta Torch of Unity at Government House, Asaba. He was represented by his Deputy, Monday Onyeme.
 
Governor Oborevwori said the Torch of Unity symbolises peace, cohesion and the collective resolve of the Niger Delta people to deploy sports as a catalyst for sustainable development and regional integration. He noted that Delta State was proud to be associated with the Games, describing the event as a credible platform for talent discovery, healthy competition and the strengthening of brotherhood among states in the region.
 
Oborevwori reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth empowerment, stressing that sports remain one of the most effective tools for engaging young people positively, instilling discipline, promoting teamwork and steering youths away from social vices.
 
According to him, initiatives such as the Niger Delta Games encourage young men and women to dream boldly, embrace hard work and channel their energies into productive pursuits.
 
The Governor further assured that Delta State would continue to support programmes that foster peace and provide opportunities for talented youths to excel on national and international stages, as preparations intensify for the Games scheduled to hold in Benin City from February 20-27.
 
He commended the organisers, Dunamis Icon Limited, for their vision and consistency, while also acknowledging the critical support of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in promoting youth empowerment, peace and unity across the Niger Delta.
 
The state government, he added, would give its full backing to ensure the successful staging of the Games and the realisation of its objectives.
  
Earlier, Managing Director of Dunamis Icon Limited, Itiakpo Ikpokpo, said the Niger Delta Games were designed to identify, nurture and add value to sporting talents from the region. He assured the Delta State Government of adequate preparations for the event, disclosing that over 4,000 athletes are expected to participate in the competition.