Team Edo State has been crowned overall champion of the second edition of the Niger Delta Games, delivering a historic triumph on home ground in Benin City and ending a 24-year wait for regional sporting supremacy.
In a thrilling medal race that went down to the final day, the host state pulled clear of strong challenges from Delta and Bayelsa to top the medal table with an impressive haul of 52 gold, 34 silver, and 25 bronze medals—111 in total.
The victory represents a significant milestone for Edo State, as it dethroned defending champions Bayelsa and reaffirmed its reputation as a rising powerhouse in Nigerian sports.
Delta State finished second with 39 gold, 29 silver, and 34 bronze medals (102 total), while Bayelsa placed third with 25 gold, 24 silver, and 26 bronze medals. Akwa Ibom came fourth with 16 gold medals among its 55 total, followed by Abia in fifth place with 45 medals. Cross River finished sixth with 38 medals, Ondo seventh with 34, Rivers eighth with 44 medals but fewer gold, while Imo placed ninth with 31 medals.
Reacting to the achievement, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, described the victory as a defining moment in the state’s sporting history and dedicated the triumph to Governor Monday Okpebholo and his deputy, Dennis Idahosa.
“This victory belongs to His Excellency, our dynamic and sports-loving Governor,” Enabulele said. “From the outset, he made it clear that Edo would not only host the Games but compete to win. He provided the vision, resources, and enabling environment that allowed our athletes to perform at their peak.”
He noted that the administration’s commitment to sports development—through improved welfare for athletes and coaches, as well as strategic investments in training and facilities—laid the foundation for the historic success.
“Ending a 24-year drought is no coincidence,” Enabulele added. “It is the result of deliberate leadership, disciplined preparation, and the resilience of our athletes. The governor’s belief in youth empowerment through sports has translated into medals and immense pride for Edo State.”
The Sports Commission chairman also praised the athletes, coaches, technical officials, and support staff for their dedication and unity throughout the competition.
“Our athletes competed with courage and discipline. They carried the pride of Edo State and exceeded expectations. This victory sends a clear message that Edo is back—stronger and better.”
He further described the Games as more than a sporting contest, highlighting its role in fostering regional unity and youth engagement.
“The Niger Delta Games have once again demonstrated the power of sports as a tool for unity, peace, and development. Edo State will not rest on this achievement. We are committed to building sustainable structures that will ensure continued success at both regional and national levels.”
The second edition of the Niger Delta Games featured over 3,000 athletes from the nine Niger Delta states competing in 17 sporting disciplines. The event, sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission, was widely praised for its organisation and high level of competition.
With this landmark victory, Team Edo has not only reclaimed regional glory but also set a new standard for excellence in Niger Delta sports.
