Ikpokpo: Niger Delta Games to Drive Talent Discovery, Regional Sports Growth
Sir Itiako Ikpokpo KSM, Managing Director of Dunamis‑Icon Limited and Project Consultant for the Niger Delta Games, says the core mission of the regional sports festival is to discover and develop future podium athletes who can reposition the Niger Delta and contribute meaningfully to the growth of Nigerian sports.
He made the clarification on Wednesday in Lagos during the official press unveiling of the second edition of the Games.
Ikpokpo explained that the initiative is designed to deepen grassroots participation, stimulate interest in multiple sporting disciplines, and strengthen eligibility rules to curb age cheating and athlete poaching.
He added that these measures would encourage states to invest more deliberately in sports infrastructure and athlete development.
According to him, competitions remain the most effective platform for identifying and showcasing talent, which is why the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) is investing heavily in the Games.
He stressed that neither Dunamis‑Icon nor the NDDC intends to ‘own’ athletes, urging states in the region to take responsibility for nurturing the talents discovered through the programme.
Ikpokpo revealed that over 600 promising athletes have already been identified, noting that it is now up to the states to help them reach their full potential.
For the 2026 edition, each of the nine participating states will field 270 athletes across 17 sporting disciplines.
He echoed earlier assurances from the Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Alabo Boma Iyaye, that the second edition would surpass the maiden outing in Uyo.
While acknowledging the success of the first Games, Ikpokpo admitted it was not perfect and promised a more efficient and impactful event this time.
The 2nd Niger Delta Games will take place from February 20 to 27, 2026, with Edo State as host. Ikpokpo commended the state for its robust sports infrastructure, including the well‑maintained Dr. Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
He was accompanied at the press briefing by Project Director Fred Edoreh; Head of Communications and Publicity, Harry Iwuala; Head of Culture and Entertainment, Edi Lawani; Chairman of the Scouting and Mentorship Committee, Godwin Enakhena; and Head of Special Duties, Onome Obrhute.
