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PRESIDENT TINUBU, AKPABIO, OKPEBHOLO BACK YOUTH DEVELOPMENT AS NIGER DELTA GAMES BEGINS IN BENIN
“President Tinubu Champions Talent, Unity and Opportunity as Niger Delta Games 2026 Begins in Edo”
The 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games kicked off on Friday in Benin City, Edo State, with a spectacular display of fanfare and a showcase of the state’s rich cultural heritage. Over 4,000 athletes and officials from the nine Niger Delta states are participating in the seven-day event, which is organized by Dunamis Icons and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Speaking at the opening ceremony, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, urged the NDDC to expand opportunities and invest in initiatives that empower youths and women. He emphasized that sports remain a powerful instrument for unity and human development.
The President also commended the NDDC for sustaining the initiative, noting that his administration prioritizes human capital development alongside infrastructural growth. Reflecting on the maiden edition of the Games, he observed that when the government provides a platform, young people respond with creativity and drive.
“Niger Delta youths are creative and ready to compete. Beyond medals and trophies, this Games is about talent discovery. Nigeria must lead. Young talents must see sport as a pathway to careers and global recognition.”
Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission, spoke on the commission’s continued commitment to develop the region and make it better, Ogbuku emphasized that the sporting festival was specifically designed to nurture amateur athletes. He stressed that the competition deliberately excludes professional athletes to maintain its developmental focus.
“We discovered that some state governments hire athletes from other states just to win medals. This competition is for amateurs 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,” he said.
Ogbuku further highlighted the significance of the event as a platform of renewed hope for young talents. “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.”
Meanwhile, Governor Monday Okpebholo described the Games as more than competition, calling them a symbol of possibilities:
“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.”
Also in attendance, Senate President Goodswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Asuquo Ekenyong, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to youth development and entrepreneurship initiatives. He pledged to work with the NDDC to drive development and encouraged athletes to showcase the true spirit of the Niger Delta.
Sir Itiako Ikpokpo (KSM), Managing Director of Dunamis Icon Limited and Managing Consultant of the Niger Delta Games, also commended the Edo State Government for its warm hospitality and exceptional preparations in creating a spectacular atmosphere for the games.
He noted that the state’s commitment, organisation, and welcoming spirit have set the perfect stage for a memorable sporting festival.
Sir Itiako also expressed profound appreciation to the lead sponsor, the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), for its unwavering support and visionary investment in youth development across the region.
According to him, the Commission’s commitment to harnessing talents through sports continues to provide young people in the Niger Delta with opportunities to excel, inspire, and build brighter futures beyond oil.
The ceremony reached a historic moment when former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, lit the Games’ flame, officially signaling the start of the Niger Delta Games.
Also present were members of the NDDC Board, including Hon. Boma Iyaye, Co-Chairman of the Main Organizing Committee of the Games, the former Deputy Governor of Edo State, and Phillip Shuab, alongside distinguished Senators, members of the House of Representatives and State Assemblies, and other top dignitaries.
The opening ceremony reached a breathtaking climax with a high-energy performance by Nigerian music superstar Patoranking, who had the crowd on their feet, singing, dancing, and clamouring for more. The electrifying performance was a perfect crescendo to an unforgettable celebration of sport, talent, and culture.
The Niger Delta Games is scheduled to take place from February 20 to February 27 and will feature 16 different sports, bringing together young talents from across the region for a week of thrilling competition and celebration of athletic excellence.
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