NDDC To Establish Sports Institute, Cements Legacy Of Niger Delta Sports Festival

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has announced plans to establish a sports institute in the Niger Delta region, a move aimed at solidifying the impact of the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival and fostering long-term sports development in the area.

The announcement was made by NDDC Managing Director, Ogbuku, during the closing ceremony of the festival, held at the Uyo Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State.

In a statement by Seledi Thompson-Wakama, Director, Corporate Affairs, NDDC, the festival, which brought together thousands of young athletes from the nine Niger Delta states, featured a diverse range of sporting activities designed to promote regional unity and identify promising talents.

“The festival is designed not just as a competition but as a long-term investment in the future of sports in the Niger Delta,” Ogbuku stated.

“One of its key objectives is to establish a periodic sporting event that ensures continuous talent development.

” By identifying and nurturing young athletes, the NDDC aims to create opportunities for them to compete nationally and internationally.”

The proposed sports institute will serve as a hub for athlete training, coaching development, and sports research, further bolstering the NDDC’s commitment to sports development in the region.

NDDC Governing Board Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, declared the festival closed, expressing gratitude to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, the organizing committee, and the athletes for their contributions to the event’s success.

Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration and Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, hailed the festival as “the beginning of a new chapter in the sporting history of the Niger Delta region and Nigeria at large.”

“We have built lasting friendships and discovered over 500 talented athletes, men and women who can go on to become champions,” Iyaye said.

“The real work is to mentor them into the next generation of super athletes.” He also acknowledged President Tinubu’s prioritisation of sports development and the Akwa Ibom State Government’s hospitality.

Representing Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, the Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, Dr Uwemedimo Udo, encouraged all participants to foster relationships and remain dedicated to honing their talents.

Hon. Donald Ohorgbe, representing Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, praised the NDDC for showcasing the Niger Delta and uniting young athletes through sports.

Team Bayelsa emerged victorious, claiming top honours at the Niger Delta Sports Festival and outperforming rivals Delta and Edo States to secure the overall championship title.