RismadarVoice Reporters
February 4, 2026
The Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, has commended athletes, coaches in the state for their impressive performances at the just concluded trials for the second Niger Delta Games (NDG).
The five-day state trials, which began on Thursday, January 30, ended on Tuesday, February 3, were held in Uyo, featured all approved sports for the regional games. At the end of the exercise, a total of 270 athletes were selected to represent Akwa Ibom State at the Niger Delta Games scheduled to take place in Edo State later this month.
In a statement issued after the trials, Elder Bassey, a veteran sports administrator and technical official, described the level of competitiveness, determination and commitment displayed by the athletes as outstanding.
He congratulated the athletes who made the final list, urging them to go on and represent the state with pride at the games.
“I congratulate the athletes who have been selected to represent our beloved state at the Niger Delta Games and urge them to go out there and make Akwa Ibom people proud,” he said.
The Commissioner also praised athletes who participated in the trials but were not selected, noting that their efforts were not in vain.
“I equally congratulate those who did not make the final list but took part in the trials. By participating, they have earned a place on our recently launched state sports database, which will open more opportunities for them in the future,” Bassey added.
Elder Bassey further applauded the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), sponsors of the Niger Delta Games, describing the initiative as a meaningful investment in youth development and regional unity.
According to him, the games represent an effective way for the commission to give back to society through corporate social responsibility.
“These games are a profitable way for the NDDC to give back to society. The economic, social and ethical values they bring are enormous. Through this initiative, the NDDC has shown that there is a future for the Niger Delta beyond oil,” he said.
He also praised Dunamis-Icon Limited, the consulting firm and organisers of the games, for what he described as their professionalism, organisational competence and technical expertise.
“I particularly commend Dunamis-Icon Limited for the level of professionalism and technical shrewdness they have brought to the organisation of the games, from the maiden edition last year to this second edition,” Bassey noted.
The second Niger Delta Games, with the theme “Beyond Oil: Harnessing Talents,” will be held in Edo State from February 20 to 27, 2026, and will feature athletes from all nine states of the Niger Delta region.
