What the Niger Delta Games Organizers Have Taught Us | SportsRation

By Nsikakabasi Akpan

Since arriving in Edo State on February 19, 2026, I’ve been intently following the 2nd Niger Delta Games. Earlier than coming, I questioned how the organisers, Dunamis-Icon Restricted, sponsored by The Niger Delta Fee, would handle to keep up the excessive customary set at the maiden version in Akwa Ibom.

I have to admit, I feared that the flashes of brilliance we witnessed in Akwa Ibom, the transparency, the glorious officiating, the correct medal computations, the welfare of athletes, and the immediate launch of medal tables, may need been only a one-off. From my expertise, I knew the problem forward for the organisers was not small.

As the 2nd Niger Delta Games attracts to an in depth in Edo State right now, I can confidently say that the organisers haven’t solely met expectations, they’ve taught us vital classes.

First, they’ve proven that it’s attainable to deal with athletes properly. From the heat and comfort supplied to states to move their athletes, to the comfy lodging and help all through the competitions, the organisers demonstrated that athlete welfare is a precedence.

Second, they’ve proved that it’s attainable to convey collectively officers and guarantee competitions are performed with equity and integrity. Watching referees and judges officiate with out bias and with out undermining different competitions was really exemplary.

Third, they’ve proven that medal computation might be achieved accurately and transparently. Each medal desk was correct, with winners’ names listed accurately, and updates have been launched on time. This stage of organisation units a normal for sports activities administration throughout the nation.

As we method the closing ceremony at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin Metropolis, Edo State lead the medal standing with 102 medals (50 Gold, 30 Silver and 22 Bronze), with Delta State in second place with 91 medals (34 Gold, 26 Silver, 31 Bronze). 1st version winners Bayelsa State occupy third place with 66 medals (23 Gold, 20 Silver and 23 Bronze). Akwa Ibom full the high 4 with 47 medals  (12 Gold, 15 Silver and 20 Bronze).

As we wind down in Benin Metropolis, I can solely applaud the organisers and their sponsors for a job properly achieved. Extra importantly, I hope this customary is maintained for future editions. The Niger Delta Games have confirmed that with correct planning, transparency, and take care of athletes, regional sports activities competitions can attain new heights, and all of us stand to learn from it.

Let this customary proceed. We wish it to proceed.