Rivers State Gears Up For Niger Delta Games With Final Trials

Rivers State is set to conclude its selection trials for the upcoming Niger Delta Games this Saturday, 7th February, with the final football squad selection.

The trials commenced on Monday, 2nd February, covering Chess, Table Tennis, Tennis, and Scrabble. Today, Tuesday, 3rd February, sees athletes vying for places in Handball and Wrestling. Tomorrow, Wednesday, 4th February, will feature Volleyball and Taekwondo. Swimming and Powerlifting trials are scheduled for Thursday, while Friday will focus on Basketball, Boxing, and Weightlifting.

These rigorous trials aim to select athletes to represent Team Rivers across all 16 sporting events approved by the Niger Delta Games organisers. Athletics trials have already concluded, and this final phase of state-level selections will precede a full training camp for the chosen athletes ahead of the Edo 2026 event.

The Niger Delta Games, organised by Dunamis-Icon, brings together the nine states of the region that are members of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). Members of the State Liaison Committee have expressed satisfaction with the athletes’ impressive form, commitment, and competitive edge, anticipating an improved performance from Rivers State at the regional sports festival.

Mrs Ibia Inyengiyikabo, the Rivers State Director of Sports, confirmed the state’s athletes are fully prepared. Speaking after the athletics trials in Port Harcourt, she praised the athletes’ dedication and eagerness to represent the state. “We have seen athletes who can do even better in the future, and with consistent training, we are optimistic about winning medals,” she stated.

The Niger Delta Games finals will take place in Benin City, Edo State, from 20th-27th February, with over 3,000 athletes and 500 officials expected to participate in the event.