Sports

Edo Shines as Ikpokpo Commends Facilities at 2nd Niger Delta Games

Published

4 months ago

December 3, 2025

Joel Ajayi

Consistent with its project execution routine, Dunamis-Icon Limited, Project Consultants of the Niger Delta Games, has concluded the first phase of physical inspection and evaluation of facilities for the event, 24 hours after the presentation of the hosting right to Edo State was performed.

The project management team was guided round select facilty locations in Benin City by Desmond Amadin Enabulele, Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, and the team leader, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo expressed satisfaction with the sports infrastructure assets of the host.

“Edo is a ready-made choice based on all the factors that are necessary to host this kind of big event. We are expecting over 3000 athletes coaches, alongside journalists and technical officials, with an approximate number of people outside spectators in the range of 5000. So, we need facilities that work for the games itself”, Ikpokpo explained.

He commended the Edo State Government for the good state of facilities at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, and promised that the state will be assisted with the renovation of some of the facilities as may be necessary to ensure good competition experience for the athletes.

“I have been to the iconic Ogbe Stadium and must commend the Edo State Government for maintaining the facilities there. We are also considering taking some events to the University of Benin, so that people in that part of the city can also feel and enjoy the fun. Where need be, we will also see how to assist the state and the University of Benin to add value to some of the sporting facilities”.

Dunamis Icon Limited is the franchise rights owner to the games conceived and designed to provide a platform for unity and integration, and identifying and grooming talented youths from the region into national and international stars.

The NDDC as the flagship interventionist agency for the nine states that make up the region, is the prime sponsor of the games as part of their strategic focus on youth engagement and human capital development.

The inspection tour began at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, after a brief meeting with Enabulele and the Sports Commission team at his office.

Areas inspected include the stadium’s main bowl, the tartan track, the state box, the VIP lounges and other key areas like the ceremonial room, the media studio and other indoor facilities.

Other facility locations assessed are the Wire Road Sports Centre being listed to host basketball and volleyball games, the University of Benin Sports Complex, and the Etete Sports Centre.

In the entourage of Dunamis-Icon were the Project Director, Mr Fred Edoreh; Director of Facilities and Equipment, Dr Emmanuel Ochuko Igbigbisie; the head of Communications, Harry Iwuala; Head of Transport and Logistics, Israel Umueri Afoke. Others are Theresa Ineke, Head of Secretariat, Godwin Enakhena, the Head of Scouting, Mr. Edi Lawani, the Head of Culture Affairs and Entertainment and Elder Siegha Porbeni of the Technical Department.

The Edo Sports Commission Chairman was also supported by Hon. Frank Ilaboya and Mrs Sabina Chikere, Executive Directors, with Mr Baldwin Bazuaye (MON) also in the company.

Pic 1… Facility assessment tour… From right, Edi Lawani, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Desmond Amadin Enabulele, Fred Edoreh
Pic 2…from right, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, Fred Edoreh, Dr. Emmanuel Ochuko Igbigbisie

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Sports

NNL 2025/2026: “Referees and Match Officials Get Prompt Indemnity Payments” – Chichi Nwoko

Published

2 days ago

March 19, 2026

The Gleamer

The Nigeria National League (NNL) is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the injection of funds and expertise by Toptier Sports Management, led by CEO Chichi Nwoko.

The league, which has struggled with issues like dodgy refereeing and hooliganism in the past, is emerging as a positive force in Nigerian football. With a renewed focus on transparency, fairness, and investment, the NNL is poised to become a hub for talent development and football excellence.

Speaking to the press, Nwoko attributed the league’s success to strategic investment. “There’s no magic formula,” he said. “Huge investment is what Nigerian football needs, and that’s exactly what we’re doing. We’re committed to creating a robust football ecosystem that benefits all stakeholders, from players and clubs to sponsors and fans.”

One area where the NNL has seen significant improvement is match officiating. “We pay referees and officials promptly,” Nwoko revealed. “That’s why officiating has improved dramatically. Our referees are confident, and they’re making the right calls on the pitch.” This focus on transparency and fairness is yielding results, with live match production improving, administrative reforms boosting compliance, and strategic planning driving flagship competitions like the Super 4.

The impact of these changes is far-reaching. Clubs are gaining stability, with some even reporting increased revenue and improved facilities. Players are getting exposure, with top performers attracting interest from top-tier clubs. Sponsors are seeing value, with increased engagement and brand visibility. And fans are trusting the product, with attendance figures on the rise.

But perhaps most importantly, young talents are seeing a future in Nigerian football. With a clear pathway to success, they’re staying in the country and developing their skills, rather than seeking greener pastures abroad. This is what it’s all about, creating a sustainable ecosystem that benefits everyone involved.

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