Niger Delta Games (Edo 2026): Festival torch lands in Port Harcourt amidst fanfare
There was a carnival atmosphere in Port Harcourt as the Torch for the Niger Delta Games (Edo 2026) made its grand entry into Port Harcourt, the Rivers State capital On Friday, February 13.
On a bright and sunny Friday in Port Harcourt, the Torch was received from the Imo State delegation by the Niger Delta Games Project Director, Fred Edoreh, was then presented to the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Sports, Comdrade Emmanuel Ndah.
The event, which signals the final countdown to the regional showpiece, turned into a carnival of sorts as the athletes toured major parts of the city, including Station Road and Niger Street. Residents cheered the procession, which was spiced up by electrifying performances from Aka Drums and the Alfonso Dance troupe, creating a vibrant atmosphere of cultural display and sporting optimism.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Sports, Rivers State, Comrade Ndah described the Niger Delta Games as a crucial platform for development that requires total commitment.
“We are very proud of this. In fact, the NDDC games is one that everyone has to belong to, to key in because it’s a very good thing,” the Permanent Secretary stated upon receiving the torch.
“We have done the needful, and I am sure our athletes will perform,” he assured.
Also speaking at the event, the Rivers State Liaison Officer for Dunamis Icon, Mrs. Awele Salubi, emphasized that the state’s preparation has been thorough and strategic.
“Our expectations are quite good, very high, you know, commendable,” Salubi said. “We’ve put in a lot of effort in preparing our athletes. We’ve gone through the trials, the exercises, we’ve made the best competent selections”.
Salubi also commended the organizers, Dunamis Icon, for raising the standard of the competition.
“I know that they’ve put in so much effort and a lot much more this time to improve from what we had last year,” she noted. “So we are expecting that we will do well, we will have a good outing—better than we did during the maiden edition… We are looking forward to storming Benin City very soon”.
Coaches and Athletes unite in “Gold Rush” target
Beyond the administrative optimism, the technical crew and athletes are singing a unified song of victory.
“In Edo State, the only thing I’m expecting is a Gold medal,” said the grassroots football coach.
Similarly, Boxing Coach, Gift Otuonye, revealed that important talent will come to the fore from her compact contingent.
The athletes of Team Rivers in the different sports and disciplines are also in fine fettle ahead of the Games.
