Gov Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Monday, formally received the Torch of Unity for the 2nd Niger Delta Games, billed to take place in Benin.
Oborevwori, represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, received the torch at the Government House, Asaba.
He reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to youth empowerment and regional integration through sports.
“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,” Oborevwori said.
He further said that the competition had evolved into “a credible platform for discovering and grooming sporting talents, encouraging healthy competition, and reinforcing brotherhood among states in the region”.
According to him, sports remain one of the most effective tools for positively engaging young people, instilling discipline, nurturing teamwork, promoting excellence, and steering youths 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 opportunities for our youths,” the governor said.
He lauded the organisers for their vision and consistency in using sports as a vehicle for regional development, and also acknowledged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its sponsorship and unwavering support.
“The NDDC’s investment in this festival underscores its dedication to youth empowerment, peace, and unity across the Niger Delta region,” he said.
He assured the organisers and stakeholders of his government’s full support towards the successful hosting of the event from Feb. 20 to Feb. 27.
He urged the participating athletes to compete with determination, fairness, and true sportsmanship.
“Be reminded that you are not just contesting for medals but serving as ambassadors of hope, unity, and progress for the Niger Delta,” Oborevwori said.
Also speaking, the Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Mr Onoriode Oborevwori, described the championship flame as “a sign of collective strength and shared vision among Niger Delta states”.
Onoriode disclosed that Delta had concluded a rigorous selection process, beginning with local government trials, followed by state trials and camping, to ensure that only the best and most dedicated athletes would represent the state in all the 16 sporting events at the festival.
“Our athletes have undergone thorough screening and intensive preparation.
“We are confident they will make Delta proud in Benin,” he said.
He also said that sporting events, such as the Niger Delta Games, foster unity, peaceful coexistence, and stronger ties among neighbouring states.
The Project Consultant and Managing Director, Dunamis-Icon Limited, Mr Itiako Ikpokpo, who led the delegation to present the torch, expressed appreciation to the Delta Government for the warm reception accorded them.
He said that the Niger Delta Games “was designed to harness and add value to the abundant sporting talents in the region”, pointing out that the focus was not merely on winning medals “but identifying and nurturing future champions”.
“We have enough talents in each of the Niger Delta states,” Ikpokpo said, adding that over 4,000 athletes would compete for laurels at the event.
“This is not just about who comes first or last. It is about discovering potential that will make our region and country proud tomorrow,” he said.
