As the zero hour approaches swiftly to the start of the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin City on February 20, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onos Oborevwori, has spoken of the State contingent’s readiness to mint gold at the regional multi-,sports Games.

He disclosed this today in Asaba when Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, received the Torch of Unity for the 2nd Niger Delta Games at a colourful and splendid ceremony , where he restated the state’s commitment to youth empowerment and regional integration through sports.

Represented at the ceremony held at Government House, by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, Governor Oborevwori described the torch as a powerful symbol that transcends a mere ceremonial emblem.

Gov Oborevwori said the flame represents peace, unity, and the shared vision of the people of Niger Delta to use sports as a catalyst for sustainable development.

“This torch we received today goes beyond a ceremonial sporting emblem. It is a profound symbol of peace, unity, and our shared vision to use sports as a catalyst for sustainable development in the Niger Delta,” he said.

While noting that the Niger Delta Games has evolved into a credible platform for discovering and grooming sporting talents, encouraging healthy competition, and reinforcing brotherhood among states in the region., the Delta State governor said sports remain an effective means to positively engage young people, instilling discipline, nurturing teamwork, promoting excellence, and steering youths away from social vices.

“As preparation intensifies for the Games to be hosted in Benin City, Edo State, sports continue to unite us across boundaries and differences, while opening doors of opportunity for our youths”.

He lauded the organisers for their vision and consistency in using sports as a vehicle for regional development, and also acknowledged the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its sponsorship and unwavering support.

“The NDDC’s investment in this festival underscores its dedication to youth empowerment, peace, and unity across the Niger Delta region”.

In his remarks, pragmatic Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Onos Oborevwori, affirmed the readiness of the State’s contingent to put up a sterling performance in the Games.

Onos said Delta State has finalized rigorous selection process , beginning with local government trials, followed by state trials and camping, to ensure that only the best and most dedicated athletes feature for the state in all 16 sporting events at the festival.

According to Onos, “our athletes have undergone thorough screening and intensive preparation. We are confident they will make people of Delta State proud in Benin”.

Onos Oborevwori added that sports events such as the Niger Delta Games foster unity, peaceful coexistence, and stronger ties among neighbouring states.

Also.speaking, Project Consultant and Managing Director of Dunamis-Icon Limited, Hon. Itiako Ikpokpo, who presented the torch to Oborevwori expressed gratitude to the Delta State Government for the warm reception.

“We have enough talents in each of the Niger Delta states. Over 4,000 athletes will compete in 16 sports in Benin. This is not just about who comes first or last; it is about discovering potentials that will make our region and country proud tomorrow,” Ikpokpo ssid.