The Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited and Project Consultant for the Niger Delta Games, Itiako Ikpokpo, says the second edition of the regional event will significantly boost grassroots sports and talent discovery across the Niger Delta. Speaking in Lagos during the official unveiling of the 2026 edition, Ikpokpo noted that the competition is designed to identify and groom future podium athletes who can contribute to the growth of Nigerian sports.
According to him, the ultimate goal is to reposition the region by developing young athletes and helping them build professional careers both locally and internationally. He explained that the Games place strong emphasis on grassroots involvement, improved eligibility rules, and the need for states to deepen investment in sports infrastructure.
Ikpokpo stressed that while Dunamis-Icon and the NDDC sponsor the event, they do not intend to “own” the athletes. Instead, he urged participating states to take responsibility for nurturing the over 600 athletes already identified with strong potential. He added that each of the nine Niger Delta states will present 270 athletes to compete in 17 sporting events.
He also reaffirmed earlier assurances by Main Organising Committee Chairman Alabo Boma Iyaye that the 2026 edition will surpass the success of the maiden event in Uyo. Scheduled for February 20–27, 2026, the Games will be hosted by Edo State, which Ikpokpo praised for maintaining key sports facilities, including the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
Ikpokpo was joined at the media unveiling by project officials including Fred Edoreh, Harry Iwuala, Edi Lawani, Godwin Enakhena, and Onome Obrhute.
