The Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) Torch, Wednesday made a stopover in Asaba, with Governor Sheriff Oborevwori urging Team Delta to re-enact the state’s dominance in sports at the maiden games holding in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom state.
The Festival Torch which commenced the tour of the nine mandate states of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in Bayelsa State, is part of events the organisers are using to create awareness for the games which holds in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State from April 1 to 8.
Receiving the torch in Asaba, Governor Oborevwori said his administration remains ever committed to grassroots sports development and youth engagement.
Represented by the State Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, the Governor expressed appreciation to the leadership of the NDDC for bringing up the novel idea of the Sports Festival.
He reiterated the state’s dominance in sports competitions in the country saying, “I do not have any doubt in my mind that that number one position is something that we will still bring back by the time you end up with the competition in Uyo.
“Just as we are blessed with oil that has become the greatest sustenance of the Nigerian nation, we are also blessed with talents that have also showcased our country to the world.
“As a people in the Niger Delta region, particularly in Delta, where we have maintained number one position in sports, we are quite convinced that our participation in this particular fiesta will indeed further showcase who we are as a people.
“Like it is always said, ‘Delta nor dey carry last’ and so we are quite convinced that you are going to do what you are known for.”
He said the presentation of the festival torch represents much more than the beginning of an exciting sports competition, saying; “it signifies unity, resilience, and the boundless potential of our great region.
“The Niger Delta has always been a land of champions, from football to athletics, from wrestling to weightlifting, our people have consistently demonstrated excellence, not just at the national level, but also on the global stage.
“This festival is yet another opportunity to celebrate that heritage, as well as discover fresh talents and reaffirm our commitment to making sports a very vital tool for youth empowerment, peace building, and economic development.
“Sports is more than just a contest of strength, skill, and intelligence. It is a unifying force that transcends language, ethnicity, and borders.
“Through sports, we bridge the divides, foster friendship, and create lasting bonds that strengthen the fabric of our society.
“As we gather here today, let us be reminded that despite the diversity of our sports, we are bound together by a common purpose, to build a Niger Delta that is prosperous, peaceful, and full of opportunities for our young people.
“Delta State has always been at the forefront of Nigerian sports. We have produced world-class athletes who have made Nigeria proud at the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and other international tournaments.
“This is why my administration remains unwavering in its commitment to supporting sports development. We are investing in sports infrastructure, grassroot programs, and talent development initiatives to ensure that our young people can think big and achieve greatness.
“This festival is not just about competition, it is about the spirit of excellence. It is about discipline and teamwork.”
He urged the athletes to compete with passion, fairness, and respect for one another and give their best not just for themselves, but for the state and the entire Niger Delta.
“Win with humility, lose with grace and let the lessons you learn at the games prepare you to greater heights in the Niger Delta.
“May this torch ignite in every athlete the determination to strive for greatness, in every coach the dedication to natural talents
and in every fan the passion to support and celebrate excellence,” he said.
Earlier, Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Mr. Onoriode Oborevwori said the State had prepared adequately for the games starting from April 1 to April 8.
He said: “In our preparation for this games a selection process began with the local government trials where talented athletes showcased their skills and the top performers from each local government then proceeded to the state’s trials where they competed against other top athletes.
“From the state trials, the best athletes were carefully selected and invited to the state’s camp where they will undergo intensive training and preparation for the festival.
“This selection process ensures that only the most talented and dedicated athletes represent Delta State at the festival and they will be competing in 17 sporting events in Uyo.
“We hope that they will make a name for themselves and make Delta State proud by making the games amazing”, he stressed.