The inaugural Niger Delta Sports Festival kicked off in spectacular fashion at the Uyo Township Stadium on Wednesday, with President Bola Tinubu declaring the event open amid a showcase of cultural diversity and sporting excellence.
Represented by the Chairman of the National Sports Commission, Shehu Dikko, the President charged the athletes to replicate the glitz of the festival opening ceremony in their performance during the actual competition.
“The showpiece was about the best way to kickstart what promises to be an intense sporting event which is expected to leave a lasting legacy, not only for the hosting state Akwa Ibom but the Niger Delta region and Nigeria as a whole,” Dikko said.
The opening ceremony was attended by dignitaries, including the Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, and the representative of the Delta State Governor, Senator Emmanuel Aguarivwodo. The Executive Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Bassey Eno, led a delegation of over 10,000 persons who defied the torrential downpour to throng into the stadium.
Pastor Eno’s commitment to the cause was evident, stressing that his administration’s conscious efforts at promoting sports and giving youths a chance to make a name for themselves and the nation.
The festival torch was lit by Olympian, Enefiok Udo-Obong, and was supported by Festival Ambassadors, including Victor Ikpeba, Seun Ogunkoya, Paralympian Patience Igbiti, and Tamunosiki Atorudibo. Afrobeat star, Phyno, brought the night to an entertaining close with some of his hit songs.
The Niger Delta Sports Festival promises to be an exciting event, showcasing the best of sporting talent from the region. With the opening ceremony setting the tone for the rest of the festival, expectations are high for a memorable and thrilling competition.