Tinubu Flags Off First Ever Niger Delta Sports Festival, In Uyo

By Ayodele Oni

The first Niger Delta sports festival has kicked off in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State with President Bola Tinubu declaring it open.

The president  commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for initiating the first-ever Niger Delta Sports Festival, describing it as a groundbreaking event that will harness youth potential, foster unity, and drive community development in the region.

Speaking at the festival’s opening ceremony President Tinubu, represented by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Alhaji Shehu Dikko, lauded the NDDC for its vision in using sports as a tool for peacebuilding and economic growth.

“The Niger Delta Sports Festival will not only discover new talents but also contribute to grassroots sports development and national security.”

NDDC Managing Director, Dr. Samuel Ogbuku, announced that bidding was open for the next edition of the festival.

Minister of Regional Development, Abubakar Momoh, emphasised the festival’s potential to drive national development, urging young athletes to seize the opportunity to showcase their talents.

“With strong backing from the Federal Government and regional stakeholders, the Niger Delta Sports Festival is set to become a catalyst for youth empowerment and regional progress.”

Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, proposed a rotational hosting system among states in the region.

Aiyedatiwa, charged Team Ondo to bring home laurels at the ongoing  Sports Festival in Uyo.

The Niger Delta Sports Festival, promoted by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), is taking place in Akwa Ibom State from April 1 to 9, 2025, with participating states from the Niger Delta region.

Governor Aiyedatiwa commended the NDDC management for organizing the competition, emphasizing its potential to promote grassroots sports and engage the region’s youths.

He also expressed gratitude to the Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, for hosting the event, describing the atmosphere at the venue as electrifying.

During the ceremony, Governor Aiyedatiwa interacted with members of the Ondo State contingent, urging them to make the state proud by winning laurels.