As the countdown begins to the 2nd edition of the Niger Delta Games (NDGs), all eyes are firmly fixed on Edo State, where expectations are soaring ahead of what promises to be the most impressive regional sporting event in Nigeria’s history.
Scheduled to hold from February 20 to 27, 2026, in Benin City, the Games are already generating widespread excitement, driven largely by Edo State’s reputation for sporting excellence and its array of state-of-the-art facilities. Organisers and stakeholders alike are confident that Edo will deliver a competition that not only surpasses the maiden edition held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, but also sets a new benchmark for regional sports festivals in the country.
Speaking during a press conference at the Media Centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, the Managing Consultant of Dunamis Icons Limited and Project Manager of the Niger Delta Games, Sir Itiako Malik Ikpokpo, reaffirmed the organisers’ readiness and commitment to hosting a world-class event. He expressed appreciation to the media for their consistent support for sports development in the Niger Delta and Nigeria at large.
Ikpokpo disclosed that sporting facilities across Edo State are over 90 per cent ready, with ongoing upgrades being carried out in collaboration with the Edo State Sports Commission, led by Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele. From the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium to other key venues across Benin City, the infrastructure reflects Edo State’s long-standing investment in sports development and its capacity to host major national and international events.
The Games, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under the leadership of Dr Samuel Ogbuku and organised by Dunamis Icons Limited, are expected to harness the immense sporting potential of the Niger Delta region, long known for producing some of Nigeria’s finest athletes.
Athletes are expected to arrive in Benin City on February 19, 2026, with the opening ceremony slated for 5:00 p.m. on February 20, 2026. In line with the organisers’ development-driven vision, local government trials will commence shortly, ensuring that talents are identified from the grassroots.
A major highlight of the upcoming Games is the reduction of the age benchmark from 25 to 20 years, a move widely applauded as a bold step toward nurturing young talents for future national and international glory. Organisers have also pledged zero tolerance for age falsification, doping, and athlete poaching, with robust monitoring systems already in place.
Each participating state will parade 320 athletes and officials, while 17 sports will be contested, underscoring the scale and competitiveness of the event.
With its modern facilities, proven organisational capacity, and a clear focus on transparency and youth development, Edo State is widely expected to deliver a spectacular Niger Delta Games—one that will not only celebrate sporting excellence but also reaffirm Benin City’s status as a leading hub for sports in Nigeria.
As February 2026 draws nearer, confidence is high, expectations are rising, and Edo State stands ready to host a Niger Delta Games worthy of national and international acclaim.