NDDC Launches Niger Delta Sports Festival, Promises Seamless Event

The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has formed a planning committee to oversee the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival, which will take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from April 1 to 9, 2025. The commission has stated that it is fully committed to ensuring that the event runs smoothly and successfully.

Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration and Chairman of the Planning Committee, made the announcement during the committee’s inaugural meeting at the NDDC headquarters.

Iyaye emphasised the committee’s critical role in delivering a high-quality festival, highlighting the region’s rich history of producing outstanding athletes and the need to revive that legacy.

“The Niger Delta region has a proud history of producing world-class athletes,” Iyaye explained. “As part of the NDDC’s 25th anniversary celebrations, this festival aims to bridge a talent development gap and provide a platform for the region’s burgeoning athletic talent.”

He tasked the committee members, chosen for their experience in sports development and large-scale event organisation, with ensuring the festival’s success.

He emphasised that the festival’s success depends solely on their dedication and commitment.

Itiako Ikpokpo, Project Consultant and Co-Chairman of the Planning Committee, expressed enthusiasm for the NDDC’s flagship sports program, predicting that it will be used as a model in other regions.

“This is a pioneering initiative,” Ikpokpo stated, “and we anticipate that other regions will try to replicate this successful model.”

Representatives from all nine Niger Delta states expressed their enthusiastic support. Hon. Daniel Igali, Bayelsa State Commissioner of Sports, spoke on behalf of his colleagues and praised the NDDC for this unprecedented initiative.

“This regional sports festival is the first of its kind in Nigeria,” Igali explained. “It will not only improve sports in the region, but also provide opportunities for youth development and crime reduction.”

The NDDC’s commitment to a successful Niger Delta Sports Festival demonstrates its dedication to promoting youth development and the region’s rich sporting heritage.

The event promises to be a watershed moment for the Niger Delta, with the potential to change the course of regional sports.