Niger Delta games kicks off with fanfare
The 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games kicked off on Friday in Benin City with fanfare and showcasing of Edo rich cultural heritage. Over 3000 athletes from the nine
The 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games kicked off on Friday in Benin City with fanfare and showcasing of Edo rich cultural heritage.
Over 3000 athletes from the nine Niger Delta States are participating in the seven days event which is organised by Dunamis Icons and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
Speaking at the event, President Bola Tinubu, who was represented by Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh, tasked the NDDC to expand its opportunities and invest in initiatives that empower the youths and women.
President Tinubu said sports remained an instrument of unity and empowerment known to mankind.
He also commended the NDDC for sustaining tbe initiative and said his administration prioritised human capital development alongside infrastructural development.
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President Tinubu noted that the maiden edition demonstrated that when government provided the platform, the youths would respond.
"Niger Delta youths are creative and ready to compete. Beyond medals and trophy, this games is about talent discovery. Nigeria must lead. Young talents must see sport as a pathway to career and global recognition".
Governor Monday Okpebholo declared N20m reward for the state that emerged winners and N10m for the runner up.
He said the sporting event represented more than competition but symbolised possibilities.
According to him, "The games are a powerful statement that the Niger Delta is not only defined by its resources, but also by its resilience, talent, and boundless human potential.
"Through sports, discipline is taught. Through sports, character is built. Through sports, people across language, culture, and boundaries disappear. In this tournament, there is no division, only teamwork, excellence, and the pursuit of greatness. This is the spirit we must carry beyond this arena into our various communities.
"To our athletes: you are the pride of the Niger Delta. You carry the dreams of millions of young people who look to you for inspiration. I urge you to compete with passion and integrity. Let your performance reflect the strength, courage, and determination of our people.
"Edo State is proud to provide a safe, hospitable, and conducive environment for these Games. May this games forge new friendships, inspire new dreams, and showcase to the nation and the world the true spirit of the Niger Delta.
"With unity in our hearts and excellence as our goal."
Managing Director of the NDDC, Chief Samuel Ogbuku, urged state governors to join in sponsoring the games.
Ogbuku, who declared the commission's committed to continue sponsorship of the games, said the sporting festival was carefully crafted to target amateur sports athletes.
He said the commission resisted move to allow other categories of athletes.
"We fnd out that state government hire people from other states in the name of winning gold medal. This competition is aimed at the amateur. From here they will be professional. All athletes come from their respective states. Let us use what we have to groom our athletes.
"This opportunity could only be given by renewed hope. This competition has come to stay. This is part of our intervention in sports. We welcome the Governor's to support. The NDDC is sole sponsor at the moment. We believe the state government will support us to sustained the sports."
Senate President, Senator Goodswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Asuquo Ekenyoung, said the National Assembly would continue to suppoort initiatives for youths development and entrepreneurship funding.
He promised to work with the NDDC to drive development, even as he charged the athletes to showcase true spirit of the Niger Delta.
