The next generation of Olympic superstars could be born in the heart of the Niger Delta.
That is the bold vision of NDDC Chairman Chiedu Ebie, who believes the upcoming Niger Delta Games will become a factory for world-class talent.
Speaking at a high-level strategy summit in Benin City, Ebie revealed he wants the Games to be the commission’s “legacy project”—turning local hopefuls into international icons.
The NDDC chief is dreaming big, aiming to see home-grown athletes flying the Nigerian flag at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and the All-Africa Games.
“The Board of the NDDC wants to make the games our legacy project,” Ebie declared.
“There will come a time when we have athletes from the Niger Delta Games representing Nigeria at international events.”
Ebie heaped praise on consultants Dunamis-Icon Limited for their “no-nonsense” approach to fixing mistakes from previous years to ensure the upcoming festival is a world-class production.
Benin Ready to Rock
Host state Edo is already fired up for the event. Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, confirmed the region is “battle-ready” with top-tier facilities and logistics in place.
He hailed the Games as a “powerful tool” for unity and peace, promising a festival that will set a “new standard” for athlete welfare and competitive grit.
Lead consultant Sir Itiako Ikpokpo admitted the team isn’t resting on its laurels.
He revealed that the strategic retreat was designed to “connect the dots” and ask “hard questions” following the previous games in Uyo.
”We are looking to see how we will organise a richer game,” Ikpokpo said.
The second edition of the Games kicks off on February 20, bringing together nine states in a seven-day sprint for glory.
