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2nd NDG: Talent Hunt Intensifies as Scouts Target Future Stars

Posted : 25 February 2026

As competition gathers momentum at the second edition of the Niger Delta Games (NDG) in Benin City, Edo State, attention has shifted to the stands as much as the arenas, where scouts are working tirelessly to identify the region’s next generation of champions.

Led by scouting committee chairman Godwin Enakhena, officials have been moving across venues from the early morning sessions until the close of events, closely monitoring performances and collaborating with the screening committee to ensure only eligible Under-20 athletes are assessed.

Speaking at the athletics events inside the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, Enakhena said the mission is clear: to unearth talents capable of following in the footsteps of icons such as Blessing Oborududu, Victor Ikpeba, Victor Osimhen, Nwankwo Kanu, Efe Ajagba, Enefiok Udo-Obong, Blessing Okagbare, and Ese Brume.

“We are satisfied with the work of the screening committee in ensuring that only genuine U-20 athletes are competing in Benin City,” Enakhena said after the 400m hurdles final.

“Our focus is to meticulously identify exceptional talents who can be nurtured to compete at the highest level.”

Former athletics stars, including Mary Onyali and Henry Amike, were also present to lend their experience and insight to the scouting process.

Reflecting on the maiden edition held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Enakhena revealed that 644 athletes were identified as promising prospects.

He expressed optimism that this figure could be surpassed in Benin, citing increased commitment by participating states to grassroots talent development.

To strengthen the exercise, accomplished professionals have been assigned to head scouting units across various sports. Blessing Oborududu leads the wrestling scouts, while Rolake Olagbegi-Kassim heads tennis. Veteran striker Victor Ezeji coordinates football scouting efforts.

The NDG, organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission, is designed to provide a structured platform for discovering, testing, and nurturing indigenous talents from the Niger Delta region into future national and international champions.

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