Chairman of the Edo Sports Commission, Amadin Enabulele, on Monday received the Niger Delta Sports Festival unity torch in Benin.

Enabulele accepted the torch at Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium before leading a delegation to the Government House, where they handed it over to Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa.

Expressing optimism about the festival,  Enabulele said it would serve as a platform to identify and develop young sports talents across the nine mandate states in the Niger Delta region.

“We are not just participating; we are going to Uyo to win. Only grassroots athletes from various local governments have been selected, ensuring a strong representation,” he said.

He added that the state had completed local government trials and was now organising state-level trials under Governor Monday Okpebholo’s “Catch Them Young” policy.

The competition, scheduled to hold in Uyo, Akwa Ibom, between April 1 and 8, is expected to feature 3,000 athletes and 500 coaches.

Meanwhile, Idahosa, who received the torch on behalf of the governor, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to sports development and pledged full support for Edo’s athletes.

“Governor Okpebholo has placed significant emphasis on sports development. We will provide all necessary support to ensure Edo secures medals in Uyo,” Idahosa assured.

He also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for its efforts in promoting sports.

Edo will compete in 11 sporting events at the festival, which is funded by the NDDC.

The festival officially began with a ceremony at Samson Siasia Stadium, Yenagoa, on March 21.

(NAN)