2,430 Young Athletes To Compete At 2nd Niger Delta Games In Edo

More than 2,430 athletes are anticipated to gather for the second edition of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) event, the Niger Delta Games 2026.

The competition will take place from February 20 to 27, with each of the nine participating states—Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers—sending exactly 270 athletes. Notably, no athletes will be permitted to compete in multiple events.

According to the organisers, this year’s edition has been enhanced compared to the inaugural event, with the eligibility age lowered from 25 to under 20 years.

Speaking at a press conference in Lagos, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee (MOC) and Project Consultant for the Niger Delta Games, stated, “We have conducted preliminary inspections and intend to build on last year’s experience, providing a platform to develop the athletes we need.”

He added, “The age reduction allows younger competitors to participate, particularly as we are committed to preventing age fraud. If we discover any discrepancies, we will expel the athlete from camp.”

Ikpokpo emphasised the organisers’ focused strategy: “Our aim with the Niger Delta Games is to build for the future. It is crucial for sports administrators to be intentional in their planning; we cannot afford to be accidental winners.”

He expressed gratitude to sponsors, stating, “Without our sponsors, sustaining this platform for the games in the region would be impossible. The Niger Delta Sports Festival is competitive with the National Sports Festival, and we strive to maintain momentum and set high standards.”

Regarding eligibility rules, Ikpokpo mentioned, “We are tightening our standards to ensure that only local athletes compete. We believe every state has untapped talent, and with proper support and budgeting, many of the challenges we face as a country could be mitigated.”

The organiser stressed that states play a vital role in long-term success: “We aim to build on our previous efforts. Each state is sending an equal number of athletes, and the competition schedule is ready. It’s essential for states to take responsibility in nurturing their talents.”

He also noted, “We plan to establish a performance centre in Port Harcourt. Although it doesn’t meet our expectations, we are in discussions with the NDDC to utilise it as a training platform for these athletes. They will return to their states, but it is imperative that the states take ownership, as our role is to provide a platform for these athletes to excel.”