Sports
Asaba Ignites as 9th National Youth Games Showcase Nigeria’s Brightest Talents
Joel Ajayi
Asaba, Delta State, is alive with youthful energy, sporting excellence, and national pride as the 9th edition of the National Youth Games (NYG) got underway last week, bringing together the brightest young talents from across Nigeria.
Sharing his experience after attending a tennis event at the Stephen Keshi Stadium Indoor Sports Hall, Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, lauded the spirit and discipline of the young athletes.
“It gave me so much joy to see their energy, discipline, and passion for the game. These young talents are the future of Nigerian sports, and it is our responsibility to create the right structures and opportunities for them to thrive.”
The DG further underscored the broader vision driving the Games:
“The future is bright, and Nigerian sports will continue to rise. Under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we are determined to create pathways that not only discover talent but also nurture them to compete and succeed on the global stage.”
Hon. Olopade added that “watching them reminded me why we continue at the National Sport Commission NSC to push for innovation, development, and investment in grassroots sports. This is where champions are made.”
The Games, running from August 26 to September 6, 2025, features 37 sports and have drawn athletes from 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Delta State, hosts and defending champions as well as Lagos, Edo, Oyo and Bayelsa States are leading the charge for who clinches this year’s crown.
The NSC invites Nigerians everywhere to rally behind the youth, celebrate their achievements, and witness the emergence of tomorrow’s sporting legends.
Sports
Thrills as 2026 National Hockey Super League Opens in Abuja — NHF President Promises Greater Innovation
Cyril Ogar
The atmosphere was electric on Saturday at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, as the 2026 National Hockey Super League officially kicked off in grand style.
The championship, which runs from November 1st to 9th, features 13 male and 8 female teams from across the country competing for supremacy in Nigeria’s top-tier hockey competition.
In the opening fixtures, Police Machine dominated IGP Flickers 9–1, Kada Stars overwhelmed Adamawa 13–0, Plateau edged Ekiti 1–0, while Niger Flickers crushed Team Katsina 10–0.
Speaking at the ceremony, President of the Nigeria Hockey Federation (NHF), Engr. Simon Nkom, expressed satisfaction with the smooth start, describing the league as a key milestone in the Federation’s renewed drive to strengthen grassroots hockey and promote national development of the sport.
“This is indeed a proud moment for us. We are here to witness a national event that we hold in very high esteem,” he said. “It’s a great way to end the year, return to our grassroots, and continue developing the game.”
Nkom, who also serves as an Executive Member of the African Hockey Federation Board, assured that the Federation will sustain its current momentum and introduce more innovations in 2027 to further elevate Nigerian hockey both locally and internationally.
“Our focus remains on building a strong foundation for our players and promoting discipline, teamwork, and fair play,” he added.
“Beyond monetary rewards, the experience gained here is invaluable. We will continue to recognize excellence through awards for Best Player, Best Goalkeeper, Youngest Player, and Most Disciplined Team.”
The Tournament Director, Mr. Falore Olajuyigbe, confirmed that the league will run for one week, ending on November 8th, with teams departing the following day. He praised the level of play and organization so far.
“The matches have been exciting and competitive. Attendance has been encouraging, and we’re confident that the quality of play will keep improving,” Olajuyigbe said.
He added that the tournament is benefitting from lessons learned during Nigeria’s participation in the African Club Championship in Ismailia, Egypt, noting that two Nigerian umpires who officiated at that continental event are also part of the officiating crew in Abuja.
As the 2026 National Hockey Super League unfolds, excitement continues to build among fans and players alike, with Abuja firmly at the center of Nigeria’s hockey action.
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