With just weeks to go until the much-anticipated Maiden Edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, Imo State is ramping up preparations to make a strong impact at the historic event. The Statesman Newspaper’s sports desk can exclusively confirm that the state is leaving no stone unturned.
The festival, a flagship sports development initiative by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in partnership with Dunanis Icon Limited, will bring together over 3,000 athletes, 600 coaches, and 300 media professionals in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from April 1st to 8th, 2025.
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During a press briefing at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri, the Imo State Liaison Committee (serving as the state’s Local Organizing Committee (LOC)) unveiled its ambitious roadmap for participation. With over 600 under-25 athletes from all 27 LGAs, Imo State will compete across 17 different sports, including athletics, football, basketball, wrestling, swimming, weightlifting, tennis, volleyball, and handball, among others.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Obinna Onyeocha, Commissioner for Sports, alongside other committee members, reiterated the state’s determination to perform exceptionally well.
With the March 7th registration deadline fast approaching, he encouraged all eligible athletes to take advantage of the opportunity. He also emphasized the significance of the State Trials, scheduled for Tuesday, March 4th, 2025, at Dan Anyiam Stadium, Owerri.
“All coaches and athletes from the 27 LGAs must be present at the stadium before 9:00 AM that day,” he added.
As part of its intensive preparation, Imo State will hold an Open Camp from March 17th to 23rd, followed by a Closed Camp from March 24th to April 30th, 2025. The team will then depart for Uyo on April 1st, with high hopes of bringing home multiple medals.
“We have absolute confidence in our young athletes. Imo State is not just participating—we are coming to compete and dominate,” Onyeocha declared.
The LOC extended its gratitude to His Excellency, Distinguished Senator Hope Uzodinma, for his steadfast support in driving sports development through his 3R agenda.
Appreciation was also given to the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) Executive Chairmen, the Honourable Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Mrs. Rubby Emele, and the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) for their collective contributions to grassroots sports promotion.
The Imo State Liaison Committee, composed of seasoned sports administrators and government officials, is dedicated to ensuring the state’s success at the festival. Key committee members present at the briefing included:
Lady Ngozi Duruh – Committee Chair & Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports
Lady Justina Apkulo – Member & Director of Sports
Hon. Willie Okolieogwo – Committee Secretary & Special Adviser to the Governor on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs
Obi Ogbala – Member
Other distinguished committee members
With Imo State’s contingent fully prepared, expectations are high for a thrilling Niger Delta Sports Festival, which promises to discover fresh talents and boost sports development in the region.
The race to Uyo has begun, and Team Imo is ready to shine!
Stay tuned for more updates on Imo State’s journey to the podium!
