— Patoranking, Eben, DJ Phyna headline colourful curtain-raiser
By Edward Oseghe
The 2nd Niger Delta Games, tagged Edo 2026, burst into life in Benin City today with organisers promising a spectacular opening ceremony at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium.
The week-long multi-sport event, scheduled for February 20 to 27, is being delivered by Dunamis Icon Ltd in partnership with the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), with a strong focus on youth development and sporting excellence across the oil-rich region.
To set the tone, organisers have lined up a rich blend of culture and entertainment, headlined by popular music star Patoranking, gospel sensation Eben and DJ Phyna. The ceremony, billed to begin at 5 p.m. in the main bowl of the stadium, is expected to attract top government officials, sports stakeholders and fans from across the region.
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, his deputy, Rt. Hon. Dennis Idahosa, alongside other dignitaries, are expected to grace the colourful ceremony. Also on ground are officials of the NDDC, Dunamis Icon Ltd and the Edo State Sports Commission led by Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele.
By Thursday evening, the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium had taken on a festive look, adorned with vibrant branding reflecting the nine participating Niger Delta states and their sporting heroes. Final technical and entertainment rehearsals were in top gear, with sound, lighting and choreography undergoing finishing touches.
State contingents and officials arrived steadily at the Benson Idahosa University Games Village, the designated camp for athletes and coaches. Media professionals and organising committee members have also been accredited, with Delta and Bayelsa emerging as early arrivals.
Chairman of Dunamis Icon Ltd, owners of the Niger Delta Games trademark, Sir Itiako Malik Ikpokpo, expressed satisfaction with the level of preparedness but stressed the need for sustained focus.
“We have come far in our preparations. While I am hugely satisfied and excited about what we have lined up, you can’t afford to let your guard down at a crucial time like this,” Ikpokpo said after the draws for the ball games.
Chairman of the Cultural and Entertainment Committee, Edi Lawani, also assured spectators of a memorable spectacle.
“It is going to be two hours to remember. We have lined up A-list musical and comedy performances.
“The opening ceremony will feature lead performances by Patoranking and gospel singer Eben,” Lawani said.
Action in the football event begins today.
Men — Day 1 (Feb. 20)
- Imo vs Bayelsa — 9:30 a.m.
- Delta vs Akwa Ibom — 12:00 p.m.
Women — Day 1 (Feb. 20)
- Edo vs Akwa Ibom — 9:30 a.m.
- Bayelsa vs Rivers — 12:00 p.m.
With excitement building and the stage set, Benin City stands ready to host what organisers believe will be a defining celebration of sport, culture and youth potential in the Niger Delta.
