(DDM) – Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has called for urgent action to address age cheating in Nigerian youth competitions.
Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) gathered that the governor made the appeal during the closing ceremony of the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba.
The event was hosted at the Stephen Keshi Stadium from August 29 to September 6.
Governor Oborevwori expressed concern that the persistent practice of fielding over-aged athletes is damaging the credibility of national sports.
He argued that the future of Nigerian athletics depends on giving genuine young athletes the chance to grow through fair competition.
The governor warned that age manipulation undermines the original vision of the games.
The 9th National Youth Games attracted 6,382 athletes and officials drawn from all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Participants competed in 37 sporting events ranging from athletics to team sports, with several new talents emerging during the week-long tournament.
Governor Oborevwori praised the athletes for their commitment, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the games.
He emphasized that the celebration of youth and talent should not be overshadowed by unfair practices.
Sports analysts have long criticized age cheating as a recurring problem in Nigerian sports.
The practice, often called “age fraud,” involves presenting older athletes as teenagers to gain unfair advantage in competitions.
Critics argue that it deprives genuine youth athletes of opportunities to develop and represent the nation at higher levels.
The issue has tarnished Nigeria’s reputation internationally, with accusations of age falsification trailing national teams in the past.
Governor Oborevwori urged the National Sports Commission to introduce stricter verification processes to detect and eliminate age fraud.
He noted that safeguarding the integrity of youth sports will inspire confidence in talent development systems.
Observers say Delta’s hosting of the National Youth Games further highlighted the state’s growing role as a hub for Nigerian athletics.
Delta has consistently dominated national sporting events, producing world-class athletes in athletics, football, and weightlifting.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting grassroots sports development across the state.
Stakeholders are now calling for biometric registration, medical screening, and digital databases to track athlete records.
Sports experts insist that without reforms, Nigerian youth games may fail in their mission of nurturing genuine young talent.
Athletes, coaches, and officials at the closing ceremony echoed the governor’s call for integrity in sports.
The 9th edition concluded with fanfare, showcasing Nigeria’s passion for sports despite lingering concerns about systemic problems.
The coming months will determine whether the National Sports Commission adopts stronger enforcement measures against age cheating.
For now, the debate continues over how to balance inclusivity, fairness, and the fight against fraud in Nigerian sports.
