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By Our Reporter
Edo State has moved into full gear for the 2nd Niger Delta Sports Festival, setting a confident tone ahead of the 2026 event. The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, who now also heads the state’s newly inaugurated Liaison Committee, says Edo is primed to deliver a festival that raises the bar for the entire region.
At the inauguration ceremony held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Enabulele gave clear assurances that Edo is ready to work hand-in-hand with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), sponsors, and all participating states to deliver a seamless, modern and athlete-focused sports fiesta.
In a statement issued by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele reinforced Governor Monday Okpebholo’s earlier position that Edo remains the natural home for the second edition of the festival.
He put it bluntly: Edo is ready to go.
“We are fully prepared to hit the ground running. The NDDC, development partners and all participating states should expect complete cooperation from us. Edo will provide unmatched hospitality and deliver an upgraded, more exciting edition of the Games. We will also stick strictly to the rules as we work with the organisers to exceed the standards set at the maiden edition. Edo isn’t hosting just for formality—we’re hosting to win.”
Project Director of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, Mr. Fred Edore, also praised Edo’s early commitment and urged all states to respect competition guidelines. He said preparations must begin immediately, with athlete trials extending to all 18 local government areas in Edo State to ensure equal opportunity for every home-grown talent.
Edore added that the age limit has now been raised to 20 years, a move aimed at widening participation and grooming more emerging athletes.
“This festival isn’t about winning at all costs; it’s about giving young talents across the Niger Delta the chance to shine,” he said.
Members of the Edo State Liaison Committee for the 2026 Niger Delta Games:
1. Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele – Chairman
2. Bright Idahosa – Secretary
3. Sogbayi Opeoluwa – Member
4. Joseph Aghahowa (Director of Sports) – Member
5. Kehinde Osagiede (SWAN Chairman, Edo State) – Member
The committee will run athlete trials from the grassroots to the state level, manage online registration through the official DRM portal, ensure widespread publicity, enforce technical compliance, supervise training camps, handle transportation logistics and manage funds as directed by the Project Consultant.
With its committee now in place, Edo State has fired the first shot—signaling a determined, organised and ambitious host for the 2026 Niger Delta Games. The state promises a festival that will not only thrill spectators but also deepen sports development across the region.
