Delta State on Monday formally received the Torch of Unity for the 2nd Niger Delta Games, with the government restating its resolve to deepen youth empowerment and regional integration through sports.
Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented at the ceremony in Government House, Asaba, by Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, described the torch as a symbol of peace, unity, and collective aspiration across the Niger Delta.
Receiving the torch on behalf of the Governor, Onyeme said the flame carries significance beyond ceremony.
“This torch we received today goes beyond a ceremonial sporting emblem. It is a profound symbol of peace, unity, and our shared vision to use sports as a catalyst for sustainable development in the Niger Delta,” he stated.
He noted that the Niger Delta Games have steadily grown into a credible platform for talent discovery, youth engagement, and inter-state cooperation.
According to Onyeme, sports remain one of the most effective tools for positively engaging young people, fostering discipline, teamwork, and excellence while steering them away from social vices.
“As preparation intensifies for the Games to be hosted in Benin City, Edo State, sports continue to unite us across boundaries and differences, while opening doors of opportunity for our youths,” he added.
The Deputy Governor commended the organisers for sustaining the vision of using sports as a vehicle for regional development and applauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its sponsorship and commitment.
“The NDDC’s investment in this festival underscores its dedication to youth empowerment, peace, and unity across the Niger Delta region,” Onyeme said.
He assured stakeholders of Delta State Government’s full backing for the success of the Games scheduled for February 20 to 27, 2026, in Benin City.
Onyeme also urged participating athletes to compete with determination, fairness, and sportsmanship, reminding them of their broader role as ambassadors of unity and hope.
Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, described the torch as a reflection of collective strength and shared vision among the Niger Delta states.
He disclosed that Delta had completed a rigorous selection process beginning with local government trials, followed by state trials and camping.
“Our athletes have undergone thorough screening and intensive preparation. We are confident they will make Delta proud in Benin,” he said.
Oborevwori further observed that sporting festivals such as the Niger Delta Games foster peaceful coexistence and strengthen ties among neighbouring states.
Project Consultant and Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, who led the delegation to present the torch, expressed appreciation for the reception accorded the team by the Delta State Government.
Ikpokpo said the Games was designed to harness and add value to the region’s abundant sporting talents, stressing that the focus extends beyond medal counts.
“We have enough talents in each of the Niger Delta states. Over 4,000 athletes will compete in 16 sports in Benin. This is not just about who comes first or last; it is about discovering potentials that will make our region and country proud tomorrow,” he stated.
