A new initiative called the Niger Delta Games is being launched by the Niger Delta Development Commission to elevate sports in the region. The Games consultant, Itiako Ikpokpo, mentioned that the event will take place from April 1 to 8, featuring 3,000 athletes competing in 17 sports with the aim of nurturing future global sports stars.
Recognizing the decline in athletic talent from the Niger Delta region, the NDDC has decided to shift its focus towards sports development alongside its infrastructural projects. Ikpokpo emphasized the commission’s commitment to fostering sports talent just as it has excelled in infrastructure development.
The age limit for athletes participating in the Games is set between 16 and 25, with strict measures in place to prevent age cheating. Successful athletes at this event will have the opportunity to participate in competitions at national, continental, and international levels.
The Games will kick off with Local Government Area and state trials before the main event in Akwa Ibom, the hosting state. Participating states include Akwa Ibom, Delta, Edo, Rivers, Cross River, Bayelsa, Ondo, Abia, and Imo.