The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has expressed confidence that the Niger Delta Games will produce athletes capable of representing Nigeria at competitions, including the Olympics.
The NDDC Chairman, Ebie, stated this while speaking during a strategic retreat organised by the consultant for the 2nd Niger Delta Games, Dunamis Icon Limited, held in Benin City, Edo State. He endorsed review and projection sessions to support successful delivery of the games.
According to him, the Commission plans to build the games into a lasting project with impact on sports development in the region. “The Board of the NDDC wants to make the games our legacy project, such that there will come a time in the future when we can have athletes from the Niger Delta Games representing Nigeria at international events like the Olympics,” he said.
Addressing members of the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee, Ebie stressed the need for evaluation and planning to sustain the initiative. “When you want to institutionalise an event such as the Games, you have to hold such reviews to ensure that gaps are closed,” he added.
He also commended the Edo State Government for its proactive leadership in sports development and expressed confidence that the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival would exceed expectations.
Earlier, the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, reaffirmed Edo State’s readiness to host the festival. He commended the NDDC under Ebie’s leadership for sustaining the initiative, describing sports as a tool for unity, peace, and socio-economic development in the region.
Enabulele said the Commission’s continued support shows an understanding of the benefits of sports development. He assured that facilities, logistics, and technical structures were in place to ensure a smooth event, adding that Edo State was working closely with the NDDC and organisers.
In his welcome address, the Managing Consultant at Dunamis-Icon, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, explained that the retreat reviewed the previous games held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, and addressed gaps for improvement. “We are working to connect the dots, ask ourselves hard questions and see how we will organise a richer Games,” Ikpokpo said.
The 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games will be held from February 20 to 27 and will involve athletes from Niger Delta states.
