The Managing Director of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, has announced plans to establish a sports institute aimed at consolidating the achievements of the inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival and promoting sports development across the region.
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According to a press statement signed by the NDDC Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Seledi Thompson-Wakama, on April 8, 2025, Dr. Ogbuku made the announcement during the closing ceremony of the maiden edition of the festival held at the Uyo Township Stadium in Akwa Ibom State.
Dr. Ogbuku highlighted that the festival brought together thousands of young athletes from the nine states of the Niger Delta to compete in various sporting disciplines. He emphasized that the event was not merely a competition but a strategic investment in the region’s sporting future, designed to foster unity and uncover the next generation of national and international champions.
“The festival serves as a foundation for a periodic sporting tradition that guarantees ongoing talent development. Our goal is to nurture young athletes and provide them with platforms to shine both nationally and globally,” he stated.
Commending the athletes for their spirit and performance, Dr. Ogbuku underscored the importance of collaboration among stakeholders—a vital component of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He noted that such festivals promote not just competition, but regional cohesion, youth empowerment, and grassroots sports development.
Declaring the event closed, the Chairman of the NDDC Governing Board, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, extended his appreciation to the Akwa Ibom State Government, the organising committee, and all participating athletes for their contributions to the festival’s success.
Also speaking at the event, the NDDC Executive Director of Finance and Administration, Alabo Boma Iyaye, who served as Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, described the festival as the beginning of a transformative era in Niger Delta and Nigerian sports.
“Eight days ago, we set out to create something memorable—and we’ve succeeded. We’ve not only discovered over 500 promising athletes but also fostered friendships that will last a lifetime. The next step is to mentor these talents into elite athletes,” Iyaye noted.
He thanked President Tinubu for prioritizing sports and expressed gratitude to the Akwa Ibom State Government for its warm hospitality. He assured athletes of proper compensation and continued support in their journey.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State, represented by Dr. Uwemedimo Udo, Chairman of Uyo Local Government Area, congratulated all participants. He urged them to focus on growth, unity, and continued dedication to developing their skills.
Similarly, Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, represented by Hon. Donald Ohorgbe, commended the athletes and praised the NDDC for highlighting the Niger Delta’s potential on a broader scale.
Team Bayelsa emerged overall champions of the festival, outshining rivals from Delta and Edo States to take the top spot.
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