Friday night kicked off the second Niger Delta Games with a splashy opening at Benin City’s Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The main bowl buzzed with pomp as the nine participating states marched in, fireworks burst, calisthenics unfolded, and cultural acts highlighted Bini and Niger Delta heritage while the police band played.
President Bola Tinubu, represented by Minister of State for Industry, Trade and Investment John Owan‑Enoh declared the Games open, tying sport to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
He praised the Niger Delta’s shift from unrest to peace and development.
Minister of Regional Development Abubakar Momoh called the event a bridge for integration and healthy competition, and NDDC Managing Director Samuel Ogboku said it aims to lift amateur athletes toward stardom.
Edo state governor, Chief Monday Okpebholo lauded the NDDC’s use of sport for youth empowerment and regional cohesion.
More than 3,000 athletes and officials are contesting 16 events. Day‑one football saw Bayelsa draw 2‑2 with Imo, hosts Edo rout Akwa Ibom 6‑0, and Delta tie Akwa Ibom 1‑1. Defending champions Bayelsa arrived with 270 athletes and 46 coaches under Sports Commissioner Daniel Igali and Director Andrew Aye.
