Edo State To Host NDDC Sports Festival

By Zainab Uzomah

Edo State has declared full readiness to host the 2026 Niger Delta Sports Festival, with Governor Monday Okpebholo assuring that the State will deliver a world-class event that reflects its status as the “Heartbeat of the Nation.” The assurance came during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) to the Government House in Benin City.

In a statement signed by the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fred Itua, Governor Okpebholo welcomed the NDDC’s proposal and said Edo’s athletes, facilities, and organisational capacity make it the ideal host. He also urged the Commission to partner with the State on rehabilitating the Agbor–Uromi Road, describing the route as vital to regional socio-economic activities.

NDDC Managing Director, Chief Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, praised the Governor’s performance in office and said the Commission was seeking Edo State’s hosting rights for the festival, themed “Beyond Oil: Harnessing Talents.” He noted that the games—first held earlier this year with over 3,000 athletes—were designed to promote unity and deepen collaboration among Niger Delta states.

The February 2026 festival is expected to attract athletes and officials from Delta, Rivers, Bayelsa, and other states. Top Edo officials, including Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa and Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilo, were also present during the visit, underscoring the State’s commitment to delivering an exceptional regional sports event.