Music, Culture and Sport to Light Up Benin at 2nd Niger Delta Games Opening

The second edition of the Niger Delta Games officially opens Friday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin, Edo State, with a grand ceremony set to combine sport, culture, and entertainment.

State contingents have been arriving in succession at the Benson Idahosa University Games Camp, where athletes and coaches are being accredited before settling into their hostels.

Delta State was the first to arrive, followed by Bayelsa and Imo States, as rehearsals for the opening ceremony continued late into the night.

Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman of Dunamis-Icon Limited, owners of the Niger Delta Games trademark, expressed confidence in the preparations while acknowledging the need for vigilance.

‘We have come far into preparations and while I am hugely satisfied and excited with what we have lined up, you can’t let down your guards at such crucial time,’ he said after the draw for the ball games.

The entertainment lineup promises to be a highlight of the evening.

Edi Lawani, Chairman of the Cultural and Entertainment Committee, revealed that A-list performances will headline the two-hour spectacle, including appearances by Patoranking and gospel singer Eben.

‘It is going to be two hours to remember as we have lined up musical and comedy performances,’ Lawani said while overseeing sound checks and choreography at the stadium.

The opening ceremony will be broadcast live on Arise Television, African Independent Television (AIT), and News Central from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., according to Harry Iwuala, Chairman of the Communication and Media Committee.

Sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), Edo 2026 promises to build on the success of the inaugural Games in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, with a celebration of athletic excellence, cultural pride, and regional unity.