The 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games kicked off on Friday in Benin City with fanfare and showcasing of Edo rich cultural heritage.
With over 3000 athletes from the nine Niger Delta States participating in the seven days event organised by Dunamis Icons and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
The Managing Director of the NDDC, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, used the occasion to reaffirm the Commission’s commitment to repositioning the Niger Delta through strategic interventions, including sports development.
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku explained that the Games were deliberately structured to nurture grassroots athletes and exclude professionals in order to maintain their developmental objective.
“This competition is for amateur athletes representing their own states. It is here that they will be groomed into professionals. Let us leverage the talents we already have to build our athletes”, Ogbuku stated.
He described the Games as a beacon of renewed hope for young talents across the region, adding that the initiative would remain a permanent feature in the Commission’s development agenda.
“The Niger Delta Games are here to stay. This initiative is part of our strategic intervention in sports development. While the NDDC is currently the sole sponsor, we warmly welcome the support of state governments to sustain and grow this vital competition”, he added.
President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, commended the NDDC for sustaining the initiative and said his administration prioritized human capital development alongside infrastructural development.
President Tinubu said sports remained an instrument of unity and empowerment known to mankind. The President noted that the maiden edition demonstrated that when government provided the platform, the youths would respond.
“Niger Delta youths are creative and ready to compete. Beyond medals and trophy, this games is about talent discovery. Nigeria must lead. Young talents must see sport as a pathway to career and global recognition”.
The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, who described the Games as more than a sporting contest, said it’s a reflection of the Niger Delta’s resilience and immense human capacity.
“The Games are a powerful statement that the Niger Delta is not only defined by its resources, but by its resilience, talent, and boundless human potential.
Through sports, discipline is taught. Through sports, character is built. Through sports, divisions across language, culture, and boundaries disappear. In this tournament, there is no division, only teamwork, excellence, and the pursuit of greatness.
“To our athletes: you are the pride of the Niger Delta. You carry the dreams of millions who look to you for inspiration. Compete with passion and integrity, and let your performance reflect the strength, courage, and determination of our people. Edo State is proud to provide a safe, hospitable, and conducive environment for these Games. May they forge new friendships, inspire new dreams, and showcase to the nation and the world the true spirit of the Niger Delta. With unity in our hearts and excellence as our goal”, the governor declared.
The Governor declared N20m reward for the state that emerged winners and N10m for the runner up.
