NDDC Vows to Sustain Niger Delta Games, Calls on States to Join Sponsorship

Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has promised that the Niger Delta Games will continue, calling on state governments to join efforts in promoting and funding the seven-day sporting event.

Ogbuku made the declaration during the opening ceremony of the second edition of the Games, held at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, Edo State.

The NDDC chief described the competition as a platform specifically designed to nurture amateur athletes. He highlighted that the Games aim to curb the practice of states hiring athletes from outside in pursuit of medals.

“We discovered that some state governments recruit athletes from other states just to win medals. This competition is for amateur athletes who can grow into professionals from here. Let us invest in our talents and groom them,” Ogbuku said.

He emphasized that the Games provide a unique opportunity for discovering and promoting raw talents. “This competition has come to stay. It is part of our sports intervention, and we welcome the support of governors. While the NDDC is currently the sole sponsor, we believe state governments will join to sustain the Games,” he added.

Represented by the Minister of State for Industry, Senator John Enoh, President Bola Tinubu praised the initiative and urged the NDDC to expand programs that empower youths and women. He described sports as a tool for unity and human development, stressing that the Niger Delta Games go beyond medals to create pathways for global recognition.

“Niger Delta youths are creative and ready to compete. This is about talent discovery, career opportunities, and national pride,” the President said.

Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, announced N20 million for the winning state and N10 million for the runner-up, emphasizing that the Games represent the resilience, talent, and potential of the Niger Delta.

Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC Executive Director for Finance and Administration and Chairman of the Games’ Main Organising Committee, noted that the second edition builds on the success of the maiden edition in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, urging athletes to compete fairly and aim for international excellence.

The President of the Senate, Chief Goodswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Asuquo Ekpenyong, assured continued National Assembly support for youth development initiatives, pledging collaboration with the NDDC to promote growth and showcase the spirit of the Niger Delta.

Over 3,000 athletes from the nine Niger Delta states are taking part in the seven-day event, fully sponsored by the NDDC.