2nd Niger Delta Games: Ikpokpo Impressed With Edo Facilities

Dunamis-Icon Limited, Project Consultants for the Niger Delta Games, has completed its initial inspection and evaluation of facilities for the upcoming event in Edo State. This first phase of assessment concluded swiftly, just 24 hours after Edo State was officially granted hosting rights.
Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, leader of the project management team, expressed satisfaction with Edo’s sports infrastructure after being guided around select locations in Benin City by Desmond Amadin Enabulele, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission.

“Edo is a ready-made choice based on all the necessary factors to host a major event like this,” Ikpokpo explained. “We anticipate over 3,000 athletes and coaches, alongside journalists and technical officials, with an approximate 5,000 spectators. Therefore, we need facilities that are fully functional for the games.”
He commended the Edo State Government for the excellent condition of facilities at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, promising support for necessary renovations to ensure a positive competitive experience for athletes.
Ikpokpo added, “I have visited the iconic Ogbe Stadium and must commend the Edo State Government for maintaining its facilities. We are also considering hosting some events at the University of Benin, allowing more residents to enjoy the excitement. Where needed, we will explore ways to assist both the state and the University of Benin in enhancing some of their sporting facilities.”
Dunamis-Icon Limited holds the franchise rights for the games, which aim to foster unity and integration, and identify and nurture talented youths from the region into national and international stars. The NDDC, as the primary intervention agency for the nine states in the region, is the main sponsor, aligning with its strategic focus on youth engagement and human capital development.

The inspection tour commenced at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium after a brief meeting with Enabulele and the Sports Commission team. Areas assessed included the stadium’s main bowl, tartan track, state box, VIP lounges, ceremonial room, media studio, and other indoor facilities.

Other locations evaluated were the Wire Road Sports Centre (earmarked for basketball and volleyball), the University of Benin Sports Complex, and the Etete Sports Centre.

The Dunamis-Icon entourage included Project Director Mr Fred Edoreh; Director of Facilities and Equipment Dr Emmanuel Ochuko Igbigbisie; Head of Communications Harry Iwuala; Head of Transport and Logistics Israel Umueri Afoke; Head of Secretariat Theresa Ineke; Head of Scouting Godwin Enakhena; Head of Culture Affairs and Entertainment Mr Edi Lawani; and Elder Siegha Porbeni of the Technical Department.