Kingsley Obot
The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has declared its readiness to host a successful and expanded edition of the Niger Delta Games, with organisers confirming that all logistical arrangements have been finalised ahead of Friday’s opening ceremony.
The Commission’s Executive Director, Finance and Administration, and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Alabo Boma Iyaye, gave the assurance during a media briefing in Port Harcourt.
Iyaye disclosed that the 2026 edition will feature about 3,000 athletes, describing the event as an improvement on the maiden edition held in Uyo, which he said recorded remarkable success.
He explained that the Niger Delta Games was conceived as the first regional sports festival in Nigeria, aimed at discovering and nurturing sporting talents across the region. According to him, the initiative reflects the Commission’s broader strategy of youth empowerment and positive engagement.
“The major objective of the Niger Delta Games is talent discovery. The platform enables young athletes to display their abilities and opens pathways for them to pursue professional sports careers locally and internationally,” Iyaye said.
The organising committee chairman emphasised that measures have been put in place to ensure transparent officiating and fairness throughout the competition, assuring participants of equal opportunities.
He noted that beyond sports development, the games serve as a social intervention designed to steer youths away from crime by encouraging structured sporting participation.
Iyaye further stated that the inaugural edition helped foster peace and unity across the Niger Delta, adding that the upcoming edition in Edo State is expected to strengthen regional collaboration and expand opportunities for emerging talents.
He also revealed that cultural performances showcasing the heritage of the Niger Delta would form part of the activities lined up for the games.