… Enabulele Pledges Top-Class Hosting
Edward Oseghe
Edo State has formally commenced preparations for the 2nd Niger Delta Games with the inauguration of the Edo State Liaison Committee for the 2026 edition. The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, assured sponsors and organizers of full cooperation and a seamless, improved hosting experience.
Speaking during the inauguration ceremony held on Thursday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Benin City, Enabulele—who also chairs the liaison committee—reiterated the state’s readiness to host the participating states of the Niger Delta.
Reaffirming the earlier commitment of Governor Monday Okpebholo, he declared Edo fully prepared to welcome the region.
“I want to assure the NDDC, our development partners, and all participating states that we are ready to begin work immediately.
“Edo State will deliver excellent hospitality and an improved Games. We will abide by all rules and work closely with the main organizing body to surpass the achievements of the inaugural edition. Edo is not just hosting—we are also competing to win,” he said.
Project Director of the Niger Delta Games, Mr. Fred Edore, commended the state’s cooperation and outlined expectations ahead of the 2026 competition. He emphasized that athlete trials must cover all 18 local government areas to ensure opportunities for all eligible talents, noting that the age limit has been raised to 20 years.
“It is not about winning at all cost. It is about creating a platform for eligible athletes to showcase their skills,” Edore noted.
The inaugurated committee comprises:
- Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele – Chairman
- Bright Idahosa – Secretary
- Sogbayi Opeoluwa – Member
- Joseph Aghahowa, Director of Sports – Member
- Kehinde Osagiede, SWAN Chairman, Edo State – Member
According to the organizers, the committee is tasked with coordinating athlete trials from the local government level to final state selection; ensuring online registration of athletes and uploading entries to the Games’ DRM portal; providing adequate publicity; and enforcing compliance with the general and technical rules of the Games.
Other responsibilities include overseeing camping and training of the state contingent, ensuring proper transportation logistics before, during and after the Games, and managing funds in line with directives from the Project Consultant.
