By Chris Umosen
The Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Youth and Sports has officially moved into high-gear preparations for the second edition of the Niger Delta Games (NDG).
Slated for 20-27 February, 2026, in Benin City, Edo State, the event will feature athletes from all nine states of the Niger Delta region.
The week-long competition, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and organized by Dunamis-Icon Limited, serves as a premier platform for regional athletic excellence.
Dominating the field
Akwa Ibom is prepared to field a delegation of 280 athletes competing in 16 sporting events, guided by 44 officials.
The state’s campaign will span a diverse range of disciplines, including football, basketball, volleyball, handball, tennis, wrestling, badminton, boxing, judo, karate, taekwondo, weightlifting, swimming, and chess.
Leadership and strategy
During a strategic meeting held recently with state coaches, the Commissioner of Sports and Chairman of the State Planning Committee, Elder Paul Bassey, underscored the importance of the current training phase.
”Early preparation provides the veritable ground our athletes need to excel,” Bassey stated.
“We are not just heading to Benin to fill the numbers; we are heading there to set the standard. Our goal is a record-breaking medal haul for Akwa Ibom.”
Final training phase
The Director of Coaching, Mrs. Catherine Ewa, confirmed that a comprehensive training schedule is currently in effect. Different sports are rotating through intensive sessions at state facilities, ensuring that the contingent is in peak physical and mental condition before their departure to Edo State.
”The spirit in the camp is high,” Ewa added. “Our athletes are hungry for victory, and we are fine-tuning every detail to ensure they perform at their absolute best on the regional stage.”
About the Niger Delta Games (NDG)
The Niger Delta Games is a biennial multi-sport event aimed at fostering unity, peace, and youth development across the nine states of the Niger Delta region through competitive sports.
