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The ceremonial torch for the 2nd Niger Delta Games began its journey to Benin City, Edo State, on Monday, February 9, with a colourful flag-off in Calabar, Cross River State.
Symbolising unity and sporting excellence, the torch will travel through the capitals of the nine participating states in the Niger Delta region ahead of the Games.
In Calabar, Olympic medalist Patience Okon George led the torch procession from the U.J. Esuene Stadium to the Governor’s Office, where the delegation was received by the Deputy Governor of Cross River State, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, who represented Governor Bassey Otu. Also present was Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Chairman of Dunamis-Icon Limited, organisers of the Games.
The event featured a vibrant procession with youths adorned in Calabar Carnival costumes, dancing to traditional Efik music blaring from trucks that accompanied the entourage.
Addressing the athletes, Odey assured them of adequate equipment and welfare support to enable them excel at the Games, urging them to compete fairly and strive for victory in their respective sports.
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Ikpokpo commended members of the State Liaison Committee for staging an entertaining torch tour and encouraged other states to create unique experiences as the torch makes its way across the region.
According to the schedule released by the organisers, the torch will move to Akwa Ibom on February 10, Abia on February 11, Imo on March 12, and Rivers on February 13. Bayelsa will host the torch on February 14, followed by Delta on February 16 and Ondo on February 18.
The torch will light the cauldron at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City on the opening day to officially declare the Games open and will be handed over to the next host state at the closing ceremony.
The Niger Delta Games is organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).
