The Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), an initiative of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), has been strategically designed to promote inclusivity by providing equal opportunities for all youths in the region, regardless of gender or physical ability.

Alabo Boma Iyaye, NDDC’s Executive Director of Finance and Administration, highlighted this vision while speaking on ARISE Television’s Morning Show. He emphasized that the festival aligns with global standards of inclusivity, ensuring that no one is left behind in the commission’s intervention efforts.

Explaining the inclusion of Para-Athletics and Para-Powerlifting among the 17 sporting events, Iyaye stated, “There are many youths in the region living with physical disabilities, and they deserve to benefit from the NDDC’s initiatives just like everyone else.”

He further noted that the festival’s inclusive structure mirrors international best practices, citing the Paralympic Games under the International Olympic Committee (IOC) as a model. As Chairman of the NDSF Main Organising Committee (MOC), he reiterated the festival’s role in fostering unity and talent development across the nine NDDC mandate states.

"Sports is a powerful tool for national unity. This festival provides a platform for young people from different parts of the region to connect, compete, and showcase their talents,” Iyaye said.

Beyond regional unity, he stressed the need to identify and nurture emerging sports talents who can represent Nigeria on the global stage. “We must regenerate our pipeline of top athletes who will succeed the likes of Blessing Okagbare, Enefiok Udo-Obong, Blessing Oborodudu, Victor Ikpeba, Emmanuel Amuneke, Seun Ogunkoya, and many others,” he added.

Since its establishment by an Act of Parliament in July 2000, the NDDC has focused on infrastructure development in roads, healthcare, education, and skills acquisition. Iyaye explained that investing in sports provides an alternative career path for youths who may not excel academically or in vocational trades.

The Niger Delta Sports Festival, which began with local government and federal constituency trials, will take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from April 1-8, with approximately 3,000 athletes competing across 17 sporting events.

Kindly like, share and leave your comments.