2nd Niger Delta Games: Teenage Sensation Hephzibah Okon Targets Global Stage as Edo Moves Top of Medal Table
Hephzibah Okon, representing Akwa Ibom State, stormed to gold in the women’s 800 metres at the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin, clocking 2 minutes 18 seconds.
The young athlete dedicated her victory to the state governor, Pastor Umo Eno, and other sports administrators whose support she said has been instrumental in motivating the team.
‘I am really happy to win this gold for Team Akwa Ibom. The support from our State Government, led by our amazing, sports-loving Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, Honourable Commissioner and sports administrators has kept us motivated to give our best every day.
‘This is why I’m dedicating the gold medal to the governor, Sports Commissioner and others involved with sports in the State,’ Okon said after her triumph.
Okon has set her sights on representing Nigeria at senior-level competitions in the near future and has already earned an invitation to participate in the National Youth Festival alongside international junior athletes in 2025. ‘I will continue to do my best to put Akwa Ibom State on the world sporting map,’ she pledged.
Meanwhile, hosts Edo State surged to the top of the medals table after Day 2 of the Games, securing 15 gold and 6 silver medals. Delta State followed with 9 gold and 11 silver, while Bayelsa placed third with 8 gold and 2 silver.
The Niger Delta Games, which began on February 20 with a spectacular opening ceremony, will conclude on February 26, with contingents and officials scheduled to depart on February 27. The event is organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
