Massive Participation on Day 2 of Niger Delta Games Trials in Akwa Ibom

Athletes showed remarkable turnout on the second day of trials in Akwa Ibom state, aimed at selecting competitors for the upcoming Niger Delta Games.

Crowds of athletes, officials, and onlookers flocked to both the Nest of Champions and West Itam Sports Centre, where four sports were showcased.

At the Nest of Champions, boxing matches drew significant attention, particularly a bout in the men’s 60-65 kg category between Jedidiah Bassey and Princewill Itoro. Their impressive skills in punching accuracy, agility, and footwork captivated many spectators, including Paul Bassey, the state liaison committee chairman for the games and sports commissioner.

In a statement made during the event, Mr. Bassey commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), the games' sponsors, and Dunamis-Icon Limited, the event organizers, highlighting that talent discovery is a crucial aspect of Governor Umo Eno’s ARISE agenda.

“The current administration is highly focused on grassroots sports development and talent scouting,” Mr. Bassey noted. He further expressed gratitude towards the NDDC and Dunamis-Icon for facilitating this competition, emphasizing its benefits for the community.

At the West Itam Sports Centre, all registered participants in handball, volleyball, and basketball were present for the trials. One athlete, Godswill Edet, a volleyball player from West Itam secondary school, expressed his excitement. “I am thrilled to be part of these trials and aim to make my parents and the state proud when the main games start,” he stated.

Similarly, Esther Idongesit, a student from Community Secondary Commercial School in Ibiaku Itam, shared her aspirations for a professional career in handball. “I appreciate the chance to represent Akwa Ibom in a major competition and hope to become a world-class handball player one day,” she remarked.

Akwa Ibom's team, which secured sixth place in the inaugural Niger Delta Games, is looking to improve its standing at the second edition, scheduled for February 20 to 27 in Edo State.