The Edo State contingent departed Benin on Tuesday, April 1, 2025, for the maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival, set to begin tomorrow in Uyo.
Hon Amadin Desmond Enabulele, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, addressed the team at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium before their departure, encouraging the athletes to represent Edo State as worthy ambassadors.
Enabulele charged the 313 athletes, who will compete in 17 sports, to perform at their peak throughout the competition. He assured them of the capable leadership of Hon Donald Okogbe, Chairman of the Edo State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, who heads the delegation. Okogbe is supported by Hon Baldwin Bazuaye, Executive Director for Edo South; Mrs Chikere Sabina, Executive Director for Sports Development and Operations; and Mrs Efe PA Amenze, Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Sports Commission.
“You are representing Edo State at the Niger Delta Sports Festival,” Enabulele told the athletes. “Go there and always be at your best. Everything you need for the trip has been provided by the organizers, and your allowances will start now. Report any challenges to the delegation leaders, compete fairly, and return with laurels. I’ll join you later and wish us a safe journey and success.”
The chairman also relayed Governor Monday Okpebholo’s goodwill message, urging the athletes to use the festival as a chance to assess their readiness for the National Sports Festival in Ogun State this May. Enabulele praised the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the event’s sponsors, for their significant contributions to sports development in the region and across Nigeria.
The Edo contingent includes 313 athletes, 56 coaches, and 12 state delegates.