By Nsikakabasi Akpan
Since arriving in Edo State on February 19, 2026, I’ve been carefully following the 2nd Niger Delta Video games. Earlier than coming, I questioned how the organisers, Dunamis-Icon Restricted, sponsored by The Niger Delta Fee, would handle to take care of the excessive customary set on the maiden version in Akwa Ibom.
I have to admit, I feared that the flashes of brilliance we witnessed in Akwa Ibom, the transparency, the wonderful officiating, the correct medal computations, the welfare of athletes, and the immediate launch of medal tables, might need been only a one-off. From my expertise, I knew the problem forward for the organisers was not small.
Because the 2nd Niger Delta Video games attracts to a detailed in Edo State at present, I can confidently say that the organisers haven’t solely met expectations, they’ve taught us essential classes.
First, they’ve proven that it’s potential to deal with athletes effectively. From the heat and comfort offered to states to move their athletes, to the comfy lodging and assist all through the competitions, the organisers demonstrated that athlete welfare is a precedence.
Second, they’ve proved that it’s potential to deliver collectively officers and guarantee competitions are performed with equity and integrity. Watching referees and judges officiate with out bias and with out undermining different competitions was really exemplary.
Third, they’ve proven that medal computation will be performed appropriately and transparently. Each medal desk was correct, with winners’ names listed appropriately, and updates had been launched on time. This stage of organisation units a regular for sports activities administration throughout the nation.
As we strategy the closing ceremony on the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin Metropolis, Edo State lead the medal standing with 102 medals (50 Gold, 30 Silver and 22 Bronze), with Delta State in second place with 91 medals (34 Gold, 26 Silver, 31 Bronze). 1st version winners Bayelsa State occupy third place with 66 medals (23 Gold, 20 Silver and 23 Bronze). Akwa Ibom full the highest 4 with 47 medals (12 Gold, 15 Silver and 20 Bronze).
As we wind down in Benin Metropolis, I can solely applaud the organisers and their sponsors for a job effectively performed. Extra importantly, I hope this customary is maintained for future editions. The Niger Delta Video games have confirmed that with correct planning, transparency, and take care of athletes, regional sports activities competitions can attain new heights, and all of us stand to profit from it.
Let this customary proceed. We would like it to proceed.
