Ogunkoya Hails Niger Delta Games’ Focus on Grassroots Talent
Seun Ogunkoya, two-time Nigerian and African 100m champion and national record holder with a time of 9.92 seconds, has applauded the Niger Delta Games for prioritizing youth talent discovery.
The former World Cup 100m silver medalist emphasized that no nation can claim to have begun proper sports development without investing in grassroots talent. He noted that the Games’ focus on nurturing young athletes is a step in the right direction for Nigeria’s sporting future.
‘The Niger Delta Games is a well-conceived programme,’ said Ogunkoya, who serves as an ambassador for the event.
‘Kudos to the organisers for laying emphasis on youth talent discovery. The Niger Delta is a catchment area for sporting talents, and everything points to the fact that we are heading in the right direction.’
Ogunkoya, who has dedicated his time to coaching emerging athletes, revealed that he will bring some of his protégés to the Games, scheduled for February 20–27 in Benin City, Edo State.
‘Of course, I’m bringing a crop of young athletes from Ondo State, and we are looking forward to the Games,’ he added.
Now in its second edition, the Niger Delta Games will feature more than 3,000 athletes competing across 17 sporting disciplines.
According to Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, organisers of the event, only athletes under the age of 20 will be eligible to participate.
