Team Akwa Ibom has departed Uyo for the 2026 Niger Delta Games in Edo State with a firm determination to surpass its previous performance at the regional sporting fiesta.
The contingent, which includes 270 athletes, left Uyo en route to Edo State on Thursday, February 19, 2026, from the NYSC Orientation Camp in Nsit Atai, where the athletes had been in closed camping in preparation for the Games.
The Honourable Commissioner for Sports, Elder Paul Bassey, who represented the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, at the send-off ceremony, charged the athletes and their coaches to remain disciplined and project the state positively throughout the competition.
He stressed the need for the athletes to have a proper understanding of the rules guiding their respective events, noting that discipline and strict compliance would enhance their medal prospects.
“We finished sixth at the maiden edition of the Games, and that was not satisfactory,” the Commissioner said. “Hosting the last edition came with distractions that affected our performance. This time, we must demonstrate the true spirit of Team Akwa Ibom.”
Bassey conveyed the goodwill of the Governor to the team and assured them of the government’s full support despite the Governor’s inability to attend the ceremony in person.
“Go there, give your best, and you will receive a warm welcome on your return,” he added.
While acknowledging that not every athlete may secure a podium finish, the Commissioner urged them to remain focused and give their maximum effort.
Accompanying the team are members of the State Liaison Committee, sports administrators, the media team, the team’s chaperone, camp commandants, and Directors from the Ministry of Sports.
Team Akwa Ibom is optimistic about improving on its sixth-place finish at the last edition and competing strongly for a higher ranking at the 2026 Niger Delta Games.
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