Niger Delta Games: Dunamis-Icon earns praises for rigorous athlete screening
As the countdown to the 2nd Niger Delta Games begins, the Games Screening Committee has lauded lead organizers, Dunamis Icon Limited, for their commitment to integrity and youth development through
As the countdown to the 2nd Niger Delta Games begins, the Games Screening Committee has lauded lead organizers, Dunamis Icon Limited, for their commitment to integrity and youth development through a comprehensive multi-state screening tour.
The committee, led by Braveman Wodi, has been traversing the nine participating states to ensure compliance with age and eligibility requirements. Following the most recent exercise in Imo State, committee member Anthony “Tonnex” Chukwu expressed immense satisfaction with the process.
The screening mandate, enforced by Dunamis Icon, ensures that by the time the Games kick off in Benin City, Edo State on February 20, 2026, every participant has been verified. The goal is simple: to ensure the competition remains a platform for genuine, rising talent.
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"I want to first commend the organizers. This pre-competition screening is a brilliant, thoughtful move that has truly opened our eyes," Chukwu told NDG Media.
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Chukwu specifically highlighted the vision of Itiako Ikpokpo, CEO of Dunamis Icon, noting that the decision to lower the age limit is a strategic move for the region's sporting future.
"The vision is to rejig sports in the Niger Delta. We want a system where athletes representing us at the National Sports Festival or international meets are homegrown. When you discover and develop younger athletes, the entire region benefits."
During his visit to various trial centers in Owerri, Chukwu praised the local coaches but reminded them of their role as the "moral gatekeepers" of the Games.
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"The success of this project depends on the coaches," Chukwu warned. "They are the first line of contact. If a 30-year-old is presented as a 15-year-old, they will eventually disappear when they hit the big stage. We want athletes who will represent us for years to come."
Event Details
The 2nd Niger Delta Games will feature all nine states of the region, hosted in Edo State from February 20 to 27, 2026.
