2nd NDGs: Team Edo Kicks Off Athlete Trials Across LGAs

Posted : 05 February 2026

Team Edo has formally begun athlete trials for final selection to represent the state at the second edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, scheduled for February 20–27. The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Desmond Enabulele, commended the technical team and athletes for their commitment and patriotism.

Enabulele visited Akoko-Edo, Auchi, Uromi, and Ikpoba-Okha Local Government Area centers, expressing satisfaction with the turnout of athletes and sports enthusiasts. He declared that Edo State is fully prepared for the regional sports festival.

As chairman of the state Liaison Committee, Enabulele noted that the trials at local government areas mark the beginning of full preparations, with the process expected to conclude at the state level on February 12, followed immediately by close camping for selected athletes.

Expressing confidence in Edo State’s capacity to host a seamless 2026 Niger Delta Games in Benin, he urged coaches and technical officials to conduct thorough trials to select the best U-20 athletes capable of bringing glory to the state.

“We are fully prepared to host the rest of the Niger Delta region, and we will adhere to the rules set by the games’ organizers. The trials started today, and I visited some areas without prior notice after our retreat in Irua. I am very pleased with what I have seen; the response is commendable,” he said.

Weightlifting, handball, volleyball, chess, and athletics were among the sports that began trials on Wednesday. Coach Ayo of the Athletics Association and Ikponmwosa Omoroghomwan of Weightlifting confirmed that the final list of athletes representing Edo State will be released between Friday and Tuesday, once all local government screenings are completed.

“We are already confident about some athletes at the state level, but we need to complete local government screenings because many raw talents from rural areas have been impressive. We believe some can achieve remarkable results,” Coach Omoroghomwan said, noting that his final list would be ready by Friday.

Trials will continue on Thursday as other sports associations are expected to begin their screening as scheduled. The festival is expected to feature over 3,000 athletes, supported by approximately 500 coaches and technical officials, competing across 17 sporting events.

2nd NDGs: Team Edo Kicks Off Athlete Trials Across LGAs

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics