Determined to clinch the top spot at the upcoming Niger Delta Games, Delta State has taken a proactive step by convening a crucial summit with its sports technical officials. The state is leaving nothing to chance as it prepares for the second edition of the competition, scheduled for February 20 to 27, 2026, in Benin, Edo State.
Learning from a Narrow Defeat
The motivation behind this strategic move is clear. At the inaugural games held earlier this year in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Team Delta finished a close second behind Bayelsa State, with merely one gold medal separating the two rivals. This near-miss has fueled the state's resolve to mount a more formidable challenge in 2026.
To avoid a repeat of that outcome, the state machinery is now in full swing. Harrison Ochulor, Secretary of the Delta State Liaison Committee for the Games, met with coaches from the 17 participating sports on Tuesday. He delivered a clear mandate: ensure that only the best athletes are selected through fair and competitive state trials.
Emphasis on Fair Play and Regulations
During the meeting, Ochulor assured the coaches that the event organisers, Dunamis Icon Limited, in partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), have established a rigorous framework for talent selection. He stressed that every procedure must adhere strictly to the laid-down rules and regulations.
Coaches were provided with the technical booklet for the games and were urged to study it thoroughly for effective implementation. The message was unambiguous: success must be achieved within the bounds of integrity and sportsmanship.
Abia State Committee Inaugurated with Stern Warning
In a related development, the co-chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, has inaugurated the Abia State Liaison Committee. Represented by the Project Director, Fred Edoreh of Dunamis Icon Limited, Ikpokpo charged the committee to diligently oversee all schedules, from athlete registration to local council and state trials.
Edoreh emphasised the critical importance of compliance with the games' regulations. He issued a stern warning that any state found guilty of age cheating or failing to present the required number of athletes for a sport would face disqualification. This underscores the organisers' commitment to a clean and credible sporting festival.
With these preparations underway, Delta State has signalled its serious intent to go for gold in Benin. The coaches' summit marks the beginning of a focused campaign to convert last edition's silver into the ultimate prize come 2026.
