Niger Delta Games Organizers Crack Down on Athlete Poaching

Organizers of the Niger Delta Games in Benin City, Edo State, are taking steps to curb athlete poaching by ensuring that only indigenous athletes participate. Sir Itiako Malik Ikpokpo, co-chairman of the main organizing committee, emphasized the need to discover and nurture local talent across the nine Niger Delta states.

The event, scheduled for February 20-27, aims to surpass the success of the inaugural edition held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. Strict monitoring systems will be in place to verify athlete eligibility and age requirements, with a focus on improving standards set during the previous games.