Final preparations are complete for the second edition of the Niger Delta Games. The event officially begins this Friday at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State.On Thursday, various state contingents began arriving at the Benson Idahosa University Games Village. This facility has been designated to host all athletes and officials during the competition.
Delta State was the first delegation to arrive at the village. Bayelsa and Imo states followed shortly after. As the athletes settled in, rehearsals for the opening ceremony continued from the afternoon into the late night.Organizers are working hard to fine-tune the ceremonial program. While the team is confident, they acknowledge the pressure of hosting such a large sporting event.
Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman of Dunamis-Icon Limited, spoke to journalists after the draw for the ball games. He expressed his excitement about the upcoming schedule.”We have come far into preparations,” Mr. Ikpokpo stated. “While I am satisfied with what we have lined up, we cannot let our guards down at such a crucial time.”
Meanwhile, at the stadium’s main bowl, workers completed sound checks and visual displays. Choreography teams also spent the day practicing their routines on the field.The opening ceremony promises to be a major highlight of the games. Edi Lawani, Chairman of the Cultural and Entertainment Committee, supervised the final technical checks.
“It is going to be two hours to remember,” Mr. Lawani promised. He noted that the committee has secured a lineup of A-list musical and comedy performers. Specifically, fans can expect performances by the popular artist Patoranking and gospel singer Eben.The event will receive significant media attention across Nigeria. Harry Iwuala, Chairman of the Communication and Media Committee, confirmed that the opening ceremony will be broadcast live.
