Rivers State Trials Enforce Zero-Tolerance on Age Cheats Ahead of 2nd Niger Delta Games

The Rivers State trials for the 2026 Niger Delta Games concluded on Saturday with organizers reaffirming a zero-tolerance stance against over-aged athletes.

The Screening Sub-Committee, led by Sir Braveman Wadi, emphasized that strict eligibility checks will be enforced to preserve the integrity of the under-20 competition set to begin on February 20 in Edo State.

Wadi explained that athletes must be born on or after January 1, 2007, to qualify, noting that both advocacy and rigorous screening are being deployed to eliminate age cheats.

‘Over the years, we’ve had issues of age cheats, so it is the thinking of the organizers to make sure we weed them out,’ he said.

Despite the tough measures, Rivers State coaches expressed confidence in their squads.

Volleyball coach Toi-Itode Edmund Ibanibo declared his team capable of winning gold, citing months of preparation, while swimming coach Gad Festus Williams predicted podium finishes after selecting athletes from across the state’s local government areas.

With the Games fast approaching, Rivers State officials believe their athletes are fully compliant with the eligibility rules and ready to deliver strong performances in Edo.