Delta Reaffirms Commitment To Sports Growth & Youth Empowerment At Zenith Bank Football Cup Kickoff
By PAULINA NZERUBE
THE Delta State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to sustained investment in sports infrastructure, grassroots talent development, and youth empowerment across the state.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori made this pledge in Asaba during the opening ceremony of the 2025 edition of the Zenith Bank Delta Headmasters’ Cup Football Competition, organized by the State Sports Commission.
Represented by his Chief of Staff, Hon. Prince Johnson Erijo, the Governor said Delta’s consistent dominance in Nigerian sports was the result of deliberate and continuous investment in school sports and youth development.
“Delta State has always been a leader in sports, and we are determined to maintain that position through strategic investments in our young people,” Oborevwori said.
He described the Headmasters’ Cup as one of the most successful grassroots sports initiatives in the country, commending Zenith Bank Plc for its unwavering partnership and commitment to nurturing the dreams of young athletes.
Grassroots Sports as Foundation for Future Champions
Governor Oborevwori noted that the football competition had become a flagship event showcasing the state’s dedication to sports-driven education and social development.
He explained that beyond football, the initiative builds character, discipline, and teamwork among pupils, helping them develop life skills essential for success on and off the field.
“Zenith Bank has shown how the private sector can work with government to create meaningful change,” he said. “This competition is not just about winning trophies—it is about giving every child a platform to dream, compete, and grow.”
The Governor expressed pride that since the competition’s inception, several promising players discovered from Delta’s primary schools had gone on to represent the state and even Nigeria in national and international youth tournaments.
He added that the event aligns with the MORE Agenda of his administration, which emphasizes Meaningful Development, Opportunities for All, Realistic Reforms, and Enhanced Peace and Security.
“When we invest in our children’s energy and potential, we invest in a stronger and more peaceful Delta State,” Oborevwori said. “Sports remain one of the most powerful unifying forces in our society—transcending age, ethnicity, and social class.”
He urged the young athletes to play with fairness and passion, reminding them that many football legends began their journeys on similar school fields.
Education Ministry Commends Zenith Bank Partnership
In his address, the Commissioner for Primary Education, Dr. Kingsley Ashibogwu, described the event as a testament to the government’s unwavering dedication to youth development, educational advancement, and talent discovery through sports.
He said the Headmasters’ Cup had evolved into an essential platform for nurturing discipline, teamwork, and sportsmanship among pupils, noting that Delta’s approach to sports development was holistic—linking education with recreation and health.
“This competition is about more than trophies—it’s about character, integrity, and excellence,” Ashibogwu said. “We deeply appreciate Zenith Bank for its consistent sponsorship and partnership in advancing the dreams of our young athletes.”
Private Sector Commitment to Youth Empowerment
Representatives of Zenith Bank Plc reiterated the bank’s commitment to supporting education, youth empowerment, and community development through strategic corporate social responsibility (CSR) programmes.
The bank said the Headmasters’ Cup reflects its philosophy of “catching champions young,” and commended the Oborevwori administration for maintaining strong collaboration between the public and private sectors.
“The continued success of this competition underscores what is possible when government and the private sector work together for the common good,” the bank stated.
As the tournament kicks off across primary schools in Delta State, officials say it will not only identify future sports stars but also deepen the culture of discipline, teamwork, and unity that has long defined the state’s sporting excellence.
