Team Edo Celebrate Historic Triumph At Niger Delta Games

Team Edo has been crowned overall champions of the second Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Games, a historic victory that has been lauded by H.E. Comrade Philip Shaibu, Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS). Shaibu described their triumph as a “landmark achievement” for both the state and the wider region.

The host state secured the title after an exhilarating week of competition in Benin City, thrilling their home supporters with dominant performances. Edo amassed an impressive 52 gold, 34 silver, and 25 bronze medals, totalling 111 medals, to end a 24-year wait for regional glory.

In a statement issued by his S.A. Media, Ben Ogbemudia, at the close of the Games, Shaibu commended the Edo athletes’ resilience and preparation, highlighting their consistent excellence in athletics, combat sports, and team events as decisive factors in the fiercely contested championship.

He also acknowledged Delta State for their strong showing as runners-up with 39 gold, 29 silver, and 34 bronze medals, and defending champions Bayelsa State, who secured third place with 25 gold, 24 silver, and 26 bronze medals. Shaibu noted that the high level of competition underscored the growing strength of sports development across the Niger Delta.

Further congratulations were extended to Akwa Ibom, Abia, Cross River, Ondo, Rivers, and Imo States for their participation and competitive spirit.

The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State also praised the State Government and the Edo State Sports Commission for successfully hosting the week-long event, which brought together over 3,000 athletes from nine states competing in 17 different sports. He cited the organisation, facilities, and crowd support as proof of Edo’s capability to stage major sporting events.

Shaibu reserved special appreciation for the NDDC for sponsoring the Games, emphasising that such investment in youth and sports development provides a vital platform for discovering emerging talents and strengthening regional unity. He noted that this aligns with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu’s “renewed hope agenda” of unifying Nigerians through sports and youth empowerment.

He concluded by stating that beyond medals and trophies, the championship showcased discipline, teamwork, and the immense potential of young athletes in the Niger Delta, reiterating the NIS’s commitment to supporting initiatives that elevate standards and promote excellence in Nigerian sports.