FIC Report (Edo State) – The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has reaffirmed Edo State’s readiness to host the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival as preparations intensify for the regional sporting event.
Enabulele gave the assurance on Thursday while receiving the Chairman of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Mr. Chiedu Ebie, who paid a courtesy visit alongside the project consultant for the festival, Dunamis Icon Limited, led by its Managing Consultant, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo.
The visit was aimed at assessing the level of preparedness, strengthening collaboration among stakeholders, and reinforcing commitment towards the successful hosting of the festival.
Speaking during the meeting, Enabulele described the Niger Delta Sports Festival as a strategic platform for grassroots sports development, youth empowerment, and regional integration. He noted that the festival goes beyond competition, serving as an investment in the future of young athletes across the Niger Delta.
He commended the NDDC under the leadership of Mr. Ebie for sustaining the initiative, describing sports as a powerful tool for unity, peace, and socio-economic development in the region. According to him, the Commission’s continued support reflects a clear understanding of the long-term benefits of sports development.
Enabulele also praised Dunamis Icon Limited for its role in organising the maiden edition of the festival, stating that the professionalism and organisational capacity demonstrated laid a solid foundation for an improved second edition.
Reaffirming Edo State’s preparedness, the Sports Commission Chairman assured that facilities, logistics, and technical structures were in place to ensure a smooth and successful event. He added that Edo State was working closely with the NDDC and organisers to deliver a festival that would set new standards in organisation, athlete welfare, and competitive excellence.
He further explained that the festival’s focus on under-19 athletes was a deliberate strategy aimed at long-term talent discovery and development, rather than short-term competition.
In his remarks, the NDDC Chairman, Mr. Chiedu Ebie, commended Edo State for its proactive leadership in sports development and expressed confidence that the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival would exceed expectations.
Mr. Ebie was in Benin City to participate in a strategic retreat organised for the project consultant, Dunamis Icon Limited, and other stakeholders, focused on planning and delivering a world-class sporting event.
The meeting concluded with all parties reaffirming their commitment to collaboration, professionalism, and excellence as preparations continue for the second Niger Delta Sports Festival, expected to further position the region as a hub for emerging sporting talents.
Signed:
Omoluogbe Ruth
FIC Benin city
23 January, 2026
