Niger Delta Games Organisers Clamp Down on Athletes Poaching

Organisers of the Niger Delta Games have moved to curb the growing practice of athletes poaching as preparations intensify for the second edition of the regional sporting fiesta scheduled to hold in Edo State from February 20 to 27, 2026.

At a press conference inside the Media Centre of the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Sir Itiako Malik Ikpokpo, Managing Consultant of Dunamis-Icon Limited and Project Manager of the Games, stressed that only athletes verified to be indigenes of their respective states will be allowed to participate.

Ikpokpo, who also serves as Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, explained that the regulation is designed to encourage grassroots sports development and ensure that each of the nine Niger Delta states discovers and nurtures its own talents.

He noted that the region has consistently produced some of Nigeria’s finest athletes and insisted that every state has the capacity to identify talents capable of representing them. To enforce compliance, a monitoring system will be deployed for screening, while coaches have been urged to scout for athletes in classrooms and communities.

Ikpokpo further revealed that the rules have been adjusted to permit only athletes aged 20 and below, reinforcing the organisers’ commitment to youth development.

He announced that athletes are expected to arrive in Benin City on February 19, with the opening ceremony slated for February 20 at 5:00 p.m.

Local government trials will begin next week as part of efforts to raise the standard beyond what was achieved during the maiden edition in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

Expressing gratitude to the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Edo State Chapter, and other media practitioners, Ikpokpo acknowledged their role in promoting sports development in the Niger Delta and across the country.

The Games, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), will feature competitions in 17 different sports.