Delta State Commissioner for Energy, Engr. Michael Anoka FNSE, on Friday, February 20, 2026, represented the Governor of Delta State, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, at the grand opening ceremony of the Niger Delta Games holding in Benin City, Edo State.
The sporting festival, organized by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) under the theme: “Beyond Oil: Harnessing Talents,” brings together young athletes from across the Niger Delta region to showcase their skills, promote unity, and encourage regional integration through sports.
Representing Governor Oborevwori, Engr. Anoka conveyed the Governor’s goodwill message to the organizers and participating states, commending the NDDC for initiating a platform that focuses on discovering and nurturing talents.
He further said that sports remain a vital tool for social integration, discipline, and economic opportunity for young people in the region.
Speaking to newsmen, the commissioner said that the Niger Delta Games will not only promote talents but will also help in discovering talents and directing the energy of the young participants towards productive and rewarding ventures.
Engr. Anoka applauded the Edo State government for hosting the regional event and providing a conducive environment for athletes and officials. He encouraged Team Delta athletes to compete with excellence, sportsmanship, and integrity, while also serving as worthy ambassadors of the state.
The opening ceremony witnessed the presence of government officials, sports administrators, NGOs, traditional leaders, and youths from various Niger Delta states, marking the beginning of what is expected to be a vibrant and talent-driven sporting fiesta.
The Niger Delta Games is designed to identify emerging sports talents, foster regional unity, and create opportunities for young athletes to excel on national and international stages, while reinforcing the vision of harnessing the vast human potential of the Niger Delta beyond oil.
Reported by Anslem Taredobra Etolor