ASABA/Nigeria: The Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday accepted the Torch of Unity for the upcoming Niger Delta Games, reaffirming the state’s dedication to nurturing young talents through sports.
Receiving the torch on his behalf, Deputy Governor Monday Onyeme said the symbolic flame reflects a shared regional vision anchored on peace, cooperation, and the strategic use of sports for development.
He noted that the Games have evolved into a credible platform for talent discovery, healthy rivalry, and stronger bonds among states of the Niger Delta, stressing that sporting initiatives remain one of the most effective avenues for engaging youths positively, instilling discipline, teamwork, and excellence while steering them away from social vices.
With preparations intensifying for the competition scheduled to hold in Benin City, Onyeme commended organisers for sustaining the regional sporting festival and also acknowledged the support of the Niger Delta Development Commission, whose sponsorship he said demonstrates a commitment to peacebuilding and youth empowerment across the region. He assured stakeholders of the state government’s full backing for the February 20–27, 2026 event and urged athletes to compete with fairness and true sportsmanship.
Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onoriode Oborevwori, described the championship flame as a symbol of collective strength among Niger Delta states and disclosed that Delta had concluded extensive selection trials from local government level to state stage, followed by camping, to ensure that only the best athletes represent the state in all 16 events.
“Our athletes have undergone rigorous screening and intensive preparation, and we are confident they will make Delta proud,” he said, adding that regional sporting competitions continue to promote unity, peaceful coexistence, and stronger ties among neighbouring states.
Earlier, Project Consultant and Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, Itiako Ikpokpo, who led the delegation to present the torch, thanked the state government for the warm reception and explained that the Games were designed to harness the abundant sporting talents across the Niger Delta.
He disclosed that more than 4,000 athletes would compete in 16 sports, emphasising that the initiative is not merely about winning medals but about identifying and nurturing future champions capable of bringing pride to the region and the nation.
