Delta Govt Promises to Sustain Investment in Sports Development 

The Delta State Government has pledged to sustain investment in sports infrastructure, training facilities and grassroots competitions.

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, who made the pledge in Asaba at the kick off of the 2025 edition of the Zenith Bank Delta Headquarters’ Cup Football Competition, said his administration would continue to promote school sports and nurture the next generation of champions through the State Sports Commission.

The Governor who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon Prince Johnson Erijo, stated that Delta had always been the leading state in sports in Nigeria and was determined to sustain that leadership through deliberate and sustained investment in youth development.

He noted that the tournament had become one of the proud symbols of the state’s commitment to grassroots sports development and youth empowerment, and commended Zenith Bank Plc for its unwavering partnership and consistent investment in the future of children. 

The Governor said the initiative was not just about football; but also about building character, discipline, teamwork and dreams among the young ones, pointing out that Zenith Bank had once again demonstrated that corporate organizations could play a vital role in shaping a better society through sustained collaboration with government.

Oborevwori expressed delight that since its inception, the Headmasters’ Cup football competition had discovered many promising young footballers across the primary schools, some of whom had gone on to represent Delta State and even Nigeria in age-grade competitions. 

“This is one of the ideals of our MORE Agenda, because when we invest in the energy and potential of our children, we are investing in a brighter, stronger and more peaceful Delta State.

“As we all know, sports remain one of the greatest unifying forces in our society. In our communities, football brings people together: young and old, male and female, across ethnic and social lines.

“I urge our young players here today to play with passion, discipline, and fairness. Remember, you are not only representing your schools but also writing the first pages of your personal stories. Many great footballers began just like you on school fields, with dreams in their hearts and hope in their eyes. With hard work, humility and perseverance, the sky will be your starting point”, the Governor stated.

In an address on the occasion, the State Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu; said the event was yet another demonstration of government’s unwavering commitment to youth development, talent discovery, and educational advancement through sports. 

Dr. Ashibogwu noted that the competition had over the years evolved into a veritable platform for nurturing young talents, while instilling in them discipline, teamwork, and the spirit of healthy competition.

He expressed appreciation to the sponsor, Zenith Bank Plc, whose steadfast partnership exemplified possibilities when the private sector and government work together for the common good. 

The Commissioner added: “On behalf of the Ministry of Education, the participating schools, and indeed the children of Delta State, we say a heartfelt thank you.

“To our young athletes, this is your moment. Beyond trophies and medals, this competition is about character, integrity, and excellence. Play fair, respect your opponents, and give your best at every stage. Remember that true victory lies not only in winning but in the values you uphold — unity, courage, and sportsmanship”.

The sponsor, Zenith Bank Plc, said the initiative aligned with its Corporate Social Responsibility pillars of education, youth empowerment and community development, adding that the event reinforced the organization’s belief in catching champions young.

The bank commended the Oborevwori administration for its commitment to education and sports development, attributing the success of the tournament over the years to the strong partnership between the private and public sectors.