...commends all participants at NDDC games

The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), H.E Comrade Philip Shaibu, has congratulated Team Edo for emerging overall champions of the second edition of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) Games, describing their victory as a landmark achievement for the state and the region.

Team Edo sealed the title after an electrifying week of competition in Benin City, thrilling their home supporters with commanding performances that saw them finish top of the medals table. The hosts amassed 52 gold, 34 silver and 25 bronze medals to record a total of 111 medals, ending a 24-year wait to reclaim regional glory.

In a statement issued  by the S. A. Media, Ben Ogbemudia at the close of the Games, Shaibu praised the resilience and preparation of the Edo athletes, noting that their consistency in athletics, combat sports and team events proved decisive in a fiercely contested championship that went down to the final day.

He also commended Delta State for finishing as runners-up with an impressive haul of 39 gold, 29 silver and 34 bronze medals, as well as defending champions Bayelsa State, who secured third place with 25 gold, 24 silver and 26 bronze medals.

According to him, the high level of competition among the top contenders reflected the growing strength of sports development across the Niger Delta.

Shaibu extended his congratulations to Akwa Ibom, Abia, Cross River, Ondo, Rivers and Imo States for their participation and competitive spirit, emphasizing that every state contributed to the success and excitement of the festival.

The immediate past Deputy Governor of Edo State further applauded the State Government and the Edo State Sports Commission for successfully hosting the week-long event, which brought together over 3,000 athletes from nine states to compete in 17 different sports. 

He described the organization, facilities and crowd support as evidence of Edo’s readiness to stage major sporting events.

The NIS Boss reserved special appreciation for the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for sponsoring the Games, stating that such investment in youth and sports development provides a vital platform for discovering emerging talents and strengthening unity within the region which aligned with President Ahmed Bola Tinubu renewed hope agenda in unifying Nigerians through sports and youths empowerment.

He noted that beyond medals and trophies, the championship showcased discipline, teamwork and the immense potential of young athletes in the Niger Delta, adding that the National Institute for Sports remains committed to supporting initiatives that elevate standards and promote excellence in Nigerian sports.

Signed: 

Ben Ogbemudia,

S. A. Media,

Office of the DG/CEO NIS 

27-02-2026