Delta State’s sports ecosystem is set for a major leap forward as the Senior Special Assistant on Sports to the Governor, Paul Ojo Omamomo, announced a self-funded, transformative initiative aimed at elevating grassroots coaching standards across the state.
Speaking while unveiling the programme, Omamomo emphasized that true sports development begins with empowering the people who shape athletes long before they reach elite levels — the grassroots coaches.
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His decision to personally sponsor 25 local coaches for an advanced certification course in Sports Psychology and Coaching Science reflects a deep commitment to modernizing Delta’s coaching framework and aligning it with global best practices.
According to Omamomo, the realities of modern sports demand more than physical talent:
“Today’s athletes face intense mental and emotional pressure. If our coaches cannot understand psychological conditioning, motivation, communication, and resilience-building, we cannot compete internationally. This programme is designed to close that gap.”
He stressed that the days of focusing solely on physical drills are long gone. High-performance sports now depend heavily on mental strength, emotional balance, and cognitive preparation — areas many Nigerian coaches are rarely trained in.
Omamomo noted that the initiative will provide participating coaches with cutting-edge tools needed to guide athletes through high-pressure competitions, including international tournaments where mental performance often determines the final outcome.
“Delta State must lead the next phase of coaching evolution in Nigeria,” he said.
“If our grassroots foundation is strong, the future of our athletes will be unstoppable.
Slot Allocation
20 slots are reserved for members of the Delta State Coaches Association.
5 slots have been designated for the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Sports.
Eligible coaches must:
Be residents of Delta State
Be active members of the Delta State Coaches Association
Interested coaches are encouraged to contact Coach Fredrick Oteri, Chairman of the Association, for verification and enrollment.
Omamomo further highlighted the importance of coaches formally affiliating with the association, as membership opens access to certification programmes, development pathways, and long-term professional opportunities.
With this initiative, Paul Ojo Omamomo has once again demonstrated leadership through action — investing not in facilities or events alone, but in people. His commitment continues to solidify Delta State as a national powerhouse in sports excellence, innovation, and future-driven athlete development.
