Minister for Youth and Sports Hon. Jese Saukuru has congratulated Fiji’s athletes, sportsmen, sportswomen and youths for what he described as a successful and rewarding 2025, while urging them to stay focused and drug-free as they prepare for the 2026 season.
In his New Year’s message, Saukuru said 2025 was a great year for sports in Fiji, marked by many achievements at both local and international levels.
He praised athletes across all sporting codes for proudly raising the Fiji flag overseas and at home, particularly through major regional competitions such as the Pacific Games, Oceania events and the Melanesian Cup.
“These achievements all go back to the development work we are doing in sports,” he said.
The minister also acknowledged the role played by administrators, coaches, trainers and sporting bodies, thanking them for their commitment and hard work throughout the year.
“Congratulations to all teams, sportsmen and sportswomen, and to everyone behind the scenes who made 2025 a success,” he said.
Saukuru also commended youth clubs around the country for their progress, noting that many have gone on to form cooperatives to strengthen their financial standing.
“My dream is that one day all youth cooperatives will be operating at their own level, improving their financial positions and contributing to Fiji’s economic growth,” he said.
Looking ahead, the minister said there was still much work to be done in 2026, but he was hopeful of even greater achievements in sports and youth development.
As the festive season ends and the New Year begins, Saukuru issued a strong message to young people to stay away from drugs.
“Don’t waste your time, your life or your money on drugs,” he said.
“Stay clean and stay healthy.”
He also encouraged youths to remain grounded in faith, reminding them that God is watching over them and will guide them through the year ahead.
Saukuru ended his message by wishing all athletes, youths and families the best for 2026.
