NDDC Completes Sports Facility In Benin Upgrades For 2nd Niger Delta Games

Benin City, Edo State, is already experiencing the positive impact of hosting the 2nd Niger Delta Games, as significant upgrades to sporting facilities have been completed. The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the event’s sponsor, and the organisers have fulfilled their commitment to enhancing infrastructure in the host state, mirroring the successful improvements made in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, for the inaugural games.

Extensive refurbishment has been carried out at the Olympic-standard 50-meter swimming pool and the adjacent tennis courts at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, speaking to Governor Monday Okpebholo during the state’s unveiling as host on December 4th, had pledged: > “Your Excellency, let me offer you the assurance that as part of our intervention policy, sporting facilities for the Games will be upgraded to meet international standards.” This commitment was reiterated by Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman of Dunamis-Icon Limited, the games’ organisers, during a recent facility inspection.

Ikpokpo informed journalists:  “We have carried out the assessment of the facilities that will host the competitions, and in a few weeks, there will be a major transformation of those that have deteriorated.

It is a legacy that the games bring to host states.”

Further renovations include the twin volleyball and basketball courts at the Wire Road Sports Centre, which now boast improved dressing rooms and conveniences.

The Niger Delta Games will feature over 3,000 athletes and 500 coaches competing across 16 sports. The event is scheduled to run from the 20th to the 27th of February. Participating states include Abia, Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Imo, Ondo, and Rivers.