Tinubu, Akpabio, Okpebholo rally behind youths as 2026 Niger Delta Games light up Benin City
The 2026 Niger Delta Games burst into life on Friday in Benin City, Edo State, opening with colour, rhythm and a proud celebration of the region’s rich cultural heritage. The seven-day sporting festival has drawn over 4,000 athletes and officials from the nine Niger Delta states, underlining its growing status as a major platform for youth development and talent discovery.
Organised by Dunamis Icons and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the second edition of the Games blends competition with culture, ambition with opportunity, and sport with a deeper message of unity and hope.
Declaring the Games open, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu represented by the Minister of State for Industry, John Enoh urged the NDDC to deepen its investment in initiatives that empower young people and women. He described sports as one of the most powerful tools for national cohesion and human development, praising the Commission for sustaining the Niger Delta Games.
The President noted that his administration places human capital development alongside infrastructure as a core priority, adding that the success of the maiden edition showed what young Nigerians can achieve when given the right platform.
“Niger Delta youths are creative and ready to compete,” Tinubu said. “Beyond medals and trophies, these Games are about talent discovery. Nigeria must lead. Young talents must see sports as a pathway to careers and global recognition.”
NDDC Managing Director, Dr Samuel Ogbuku, reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to building a better Niger Delta through deliberate investment in grassroots sports. He explained that the Games were designed strictly for amateur athletes, deliberately excluding professionals to preserve their developmental essence.
“We discovered that some state governments hire athletes from other states just to win medals,” Ogbuku said. “This competition is for amateur athletes representing their own states. Here, they will be groomed into professionals. Let us leverage the talents we already have to build our athletes.”
He described the Niger Delta Games as a beacon of renewed hope for young people, stressing that the initiative is a long-term intervention in sports development. While the NDDC currently remains the sole sponsor, Ogbuku welcomed stronger collaboration with state governments to sustain and expand the Games.
Host Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, captured the deeper meaning of the festival, describing it as far more than a sporting contest.
“The Games are a powerful statement that the Niger Delta is not only defined by its resources, but by its resilience, talent and boundless human potential,” he said. “Through sports, discipline is taught. Through sports, character is built. Through sports, divisions across language, culture and boundaries disappear.”
Addressing the athletes, Okpebholo urged them to compete with passion and integrity, reminding them that they carry the dreams of millions across the region. He assured participants of Edo State’s commitment to providing a safe, hospitable and conducive environment for a memorable Games.
The National Assembly also lent its voice to the celebration. Senate President, Godswill Akpabio represented by Senator Asuquo Ekenyong reaffirmed the legislature’s support for youth development and entrepreneurship, pledging continued collaboration with the NDDC to drive sustainable progress in the region.
Managing Director of Dunamis Icon Limited and Managing Consultant of the Niger Delta Games, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo (KSM), commended the Edo State Government for its exceptional preparations and warm hospitality, describing the atmosphere as the perfect stage for a memorable sporting festival. He also expressed deep appreciation to the NDDC for its visionary support, noting that the Commission’s investment in sports continues to open new pathways for young people beyond oil.
A historic highlight of the ceremony came when former African Footballer of the Year, Victor Ikpeba, lit the Games’ flame, officially signalling the start of the competition.
The event attracted an array of dignitaries, including members of the NDDC Board such as Hon. Boma Iyaye, Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, former Edo State Deputy Governor Phillip Shuab, as well as Senators, members of the House of Representatives, State Assemblies and other top officials.
The opening ceremony reached a thrilling crescendo with a high-energy performance by Nigerian music superstar Patoranking, who had the stadium on its feet in a fitting celebration of sport, culture and youthful expression.
The Niger Delta Games will run from February 20 to February 27, featuring 16 sports and bringing together young talents from across the region for a week of intense competition, unity and the pursuit of excellence.
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