Joshua Solomon Shines as Team Rivers Finalizes Squad for 2nd Niger Delta Games

Teenage boxing prodigy Joshua Solomon stole the spotlight during Team Rivers’ Thursday trials as preparations reached their final stretch for the 2026 Niger Delta Games in Edo State.

Competing in the 70kg category, Joshua swept aside all challengers to secure his place on the team.

Brimming with confidence, he declared his ambition: ‘I’m going to win Gold in Edo State. I say this from my heart and I know I can achieve this.’

The women’s trials produced another standout in Naomi Henshaw, who impressed in the 54kg class.

Having transitioned from athletics to boxing, Naomi expressed gratitude for her journey and promised to dedicate her anticipated victory to her grandmother.

‘My message to all who wish me well is that they should always pray for me. I will not forget them when I win Gold in Edo State,’ she said with conviction.

Team Rivers’ boxing coach, Gift Otuonye, confirmed that eight boxers, four men and four women, were selected to represent the state.

She emphasized that the mission in Benin is clear: ‘I am not travelling to Edo State for a jamboree. I’m going there to win Gold and I know these selected boxers will do just that.’

Meanwhile, in para powerlifting, head coach Igbikiowibo Bibi, popularly known as Coach Igbiks, unveiled six lifters chosen to compete.

He explained that the athletes were scouted from rural communities across Rivers State, ensuring only the most promising talents made the cut.

‘The trials have been very successful. We trust the lifters too. One of them has taken part in a previous edition of the Games and the others, who will be participating for the first time, will be looking to make a name for themselves,’ he said with optimism.

With boxing and para powerlifting squads now finalized, Team Rivers is bracing for a strong showing at the Niger Delta Games, determined to return home draped in gold.