Former world-acclaimed athlete and Niger Delta Games (NDG) ambassador, Ogunkoya, has thrown his weight behind the Niger Delta Games, describing the initiative as a critical pathway to sustainable sports development in Nigeria through youth talent discovery.
Ogunkoya stressed that no nation can build a strong sporting future without deliberate investment in identifying and nurturing young talents, noting that the NDG’s focus on grassroots development places Nigeria on the right trajectory.
“Any country that ignores youth talent discovery has not started proper sports development,” Ogunkoya said. “First of all, the Niger Delta Games is a well-conceived programme.
Kudos to the organisers for laying emphasis on youth talent discovery and when you look at it, the Niger Delta is a catchment area for sporting talents; everything points to the fact that we are in the right direction.”
The former star athlete, who now dedicates his time to coaching and mentoring young prospects, confirmed that he will be presenting some of his discoveries at the Games, scheduled to hold from February 20 to 27 in Benin City, Edo State.
“Of course, I’m bringing a crop of young athletes from Ondo State, and we are looking forward to the games,” he added.
The Niger Delta Games will stage its second edition with over 1,000 athletes expected to compete across 17 sporting disciplines, underscoring its growing status as a major platform for unearthing future stars.
Meanwhile, consultant to the NDG and Managing Director of Dunamis Icon Limited, Itiako Ikpokpo, disclosed that the competition remains strictly youth-focused, with only under-20 athletes eligible for registration.
According to him, the age restriction is aimed at ensuring the Games remain true to their core mandate of grassroots talent discovery and long-term athlete development.
With seasoned professionals like Ogunkoya lending their expertise and credibility, the NDG continues to position itself as a strategic engine for discovering and grooming the next generation of Nigerian sporting talent.
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