Edith CHUKU
Ahead of the 2nd Edition of the Niger Delta Games, the Chairman of the Governing Board of the Niger Delta Development Commission NDDC, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, has expressed confidence that athletes discovered at the games will go on to represent Nigeria at major international competitions such as the Olympics, Commonwealth Games and the All-Africa Games.
Ebie stated this during a retreat organized by Dunamis Icon Limited, consultants for the games, which would begin from February 20-27, for the nine states that make up the Niger Delta region.
At the retreat held in Benin City, Edo State, the NDDC chairman endorsed the idea of holding sessions to review and project plans for successful games.
His words, “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 such as the Olympics.”
Commending the leadership of Dunamis-Icon Limited while addressing members of the Main Organising Committee and the Local Organising Committee, Ebie noted that, “when you want to institutionalise an event such as the games, you have to hold such reviews to ensure that gaps are closed.”
The chairman also commended the Edo State Government for what he described as 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, Mr. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, reaffirmed Edo State’s readiness to host the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival.
He commended the NDDC under the leadership of Ebie for sustaining the initiative, describing sports as a powerful tool for unity, peace, and socio-economic development in the region. According to him, the Commission’s continued support reflects a clear understanding of the long-term benefits of sports development.
Reaffirming Edo State’s preparedness, the Sports Commission Chairman assured that facilities, logistics, and technical structures were in place to ensure a smooth and successful event. He added that Edo State was working closely with the NDDC and organisers to deliver a festival that would set new standards in organisation, athlete welfare, and competitive excellence.
In his welcome address, the Managing Consultant at Dunamis-Icon, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, explained that the retreat was the second to be organised to review the past games in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State and correct mistakes for improvement.
“We are working to connect the dots, ask ourselves hard questions and see how we will organise a richer Games.”
