Delta Receives Torch of Unity for 2nd Niger Delta Games, Reaffirms Commitment to Youth Development

Delta State Deputy Governor, Sir Monday Onyeme (3rd right), receiving the 2nd Niger Delta Games Torch of Unity on behalf of Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, from the Chairman, Delta State Sports Commission, Mr Onoriode Oborevwori in Government House, Asaba on Monday.

From Francis Sadhere, Delta

Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, on Monday formally received the Torch of Unity for the 2nd Niger Delta Games, reaffirming the state’s commitment to youth empowerment and regional integration through sports.

The governor, who was represented at the ceremony held at Government House, Asaba, by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, described the torch as a powerful symbol that transcends mere ceremony.

Receiving the torch on behalf of the governor, Onyeme said the flame represents peace, unity and a shared vision among Niger Delta states to harness sports as a catalyst for sustainable development.

“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,” he said.

He noted that the Niger Delta Games had evolved into a credible platform for discovering and grooming sporting talents, promoting healthy competition and strengthening 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 opportunity for our youths,” Onyeme added.

The deputy governor commended the organisers for their vision and consistency in using sports as a vehicle for regional development, and acknowledged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its sponsorship and sustained support.

“The NDDC’s investment in this festival underscores its dedication to youth empowerment, peace and unity across the Niger Delta region,” he said.

Onyeme assured stakeholders of the Delta State Government’s full support toward the successful hosting of the Games in Benin from February 20 to 27, 2026. He urged participating athletes to compete with determination, fairness and true sportsmanship, reminding them that they represent hope, unity and progress for the region.

Also speaking, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori, described the championship flame as a symbol of collective strength and shared aspiration among Niger Delta states.

He disclosed that Delta had completed a rigorous selection process, beginning with local government trials, followed by state trials and camping, to ensure that only the best athletes represent the state in all 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.

Oborevwori added that sports festivals such as the Niger Delta Games promote unity, peaceful coexistence and stronger ties among neighbouring states.

Project Consultant and Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, who led the delegation to present the torch, expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for the warm reception.

He said the Niger Delta Games was designed to harness and add value to the abundant sporting talents in the region, stressing that the focus extends beyond winning medals to identifying and nurturing future champions.

“We have enough talents in each of the Niger Delta states. Over 4,000 athletes will compete in 16 sports in Benin. This is not just about who comes first or last; it is about discovering potentials that will make our region and country proud tomorrow,” Ikpokpo stated.