Excitement is building across the Niger Delta region as participating states accelerate their final preparations for the upcoming 2nd Niger Delta Games (NDG). With the registration phase transitioning online, states from Cross River to Akwa Ibom, and from Imo to Ondo are fine-tuning their teams and strategies for the regional sporting showpiece.
Registration Process Nears Completion
The logistical groundwork for the games is advancing swiftly. In most states, the initial registration of athletes and officials has concluded, with focus now on the uploading of completed forms to the official NDG registration portal. This digital shift aims to streamline the administrative process for the multi-sport event.
State Liaison Committees are actively collaborating with local sports associations to secure technical support for organising their respective state finals. This coordinated approach is designed to ensure that only the best talents represent each state at the main event in Benin.
Akwa Ibom Reports Seamless Progress
In Akwa Ibom State, the preparation mood is decidedly positive. The State Liaison Committee Chairman, Elder Paul Bassey, who also serves as the Commissioner for Sports, expressed satisfaction with the progress made so far.
He reported that the registration and form upload process has been smooth, with athletes and officials participating enthusiastically. "This smooth coordination reflects the state’s early commitment to ensuring a strong and organised presence at the Games," Bassey stated in an interview with NDG Media.
Beyond paperwork, active training is already in full swing. Athletes across various sports disciplines have begun intensive training camps ahead of the state trials. "The mood in camp is upbeat, with participants showing high levels of enthusiasm, focus, and competitiveness," Bassey added, highlighting the state's readiness.
Ondo State Holds Strategic Stakeholder Meeting
Meanwhile, in Akure, the Ondo State capital, the NDG Liaison Committee convened a crucial meeting with key stakeholders to harmonise plans. The gathering, held at the Ondo State Sports Complex, brought together officials from the state sports council and various athletic associations.
Chairing the committee is Henry Omoyofunmi, who doubles as the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development. He emphasized that the engagement was critical to synchronising efforts for a successful outing for Ondo State at the games in Benin.
Omoyofunmi outlined the broader vision for the event, noting that the Niger Delta Games serve a greater purpose than just competition. "The Games would serve as a platform to discover and nurture young talents, promote unity and strengthen grassroots sports development in the region," he explained.
Participants at the Ondo meeting unanimously pledged their cooperation, particularly in the vital area of athlete and resource mobilisation, ensuring a united front.
Regional Momentum Builds
The wave of preparation is not limited to Akwa Ibom and Ondo. Reports from other participating states like Cross River, Imo, Delta, Bayelsa, and Edo indicate similar momentum. Coaches and technical officials in these states are closely monitoring athlete progress, adjusting training programmes to peak at the right time.
With the games drawing nearer, the collective effort across the Niger Delta states points towards a highly competitive and well-organised event. The combination of meticulous planning, athlete dedication, and positive regional spirit is setting the stage for the Niger Delta to proudly showcase its sporting depth and abundant talent on a dedicated platform.
