The Director General and Chief Executive Officer of the National Institute for Sports (NIS), Rt Hon Comrade Philip Shaibu, on Friday led a high-level inspection tour of the iconic Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, declaring Edo State ready to host a successful and memorable edition of the forthcoming NDDC Games.
Accompanied by the Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon Desmond Amadin Enabulele, and the Executive Director, Mrs. Sabina Chikere, the DG undertook a comprehensive assessment of the athletics tracks, playing turfs, tennis courts, and spectator stands within the expansive sports complex.
Walking along the well-laid tartan tracks under the vast canopy of the main bowl, Shaibu expressed satisfaction with the state of the facilities, noting that the stadium remains one of the finest sporting arenas in the country.
The inspection team moved round the pitch, interacted with officials, and evaluated key areas critical to the smooth hosting of the regional games.
At the tennis section of the complex, the DG observed ongoing finishing touches and commended the maintenance culture evident in the pristine courts and organized seating areas.
The VIP stands and covered terraces were also assessed, with attention paid to security, athlete access routes, and spectator convenience.
Speaking during the tour, Shaibu emphasized that sports infrastructure must not only be built but sustained to meet international standards.
“What we have seen here today reflects commitment. Edo State has once again demonstrated leadership in sports development. The facilities are in excellent condition, and with the level of preparation on ground, the NDDC Games will be a huge success,” he said.
Hon. Enabulele reaffirmed the state government’s resolve to ensure seamless hosting of the games, highlighting collaboration between the Sports Commission and relevant stakeholders.
Mrs. Sabina Chikere also stressed the importance of athlete welfare, logistics coordination, and technical readiness ahead of the event.
The inspection further showcased the stadium’s expansive seating capacity, modern track lanes clearly marked for competition, and lush green turf prepared to host top-tier athletes from across the Niger Delta region.
Officials were seen reviewing access points and discussing operational frameworks as part of final readiness checks.
For Edo State, a region with a proud sporting heritage, the NDDC Games represent more than competition, they symbolize unity, youth empowerment, and regional development through sports.
With the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium standing tall in structure and preparedness, Edo people are expressing optimism that Edo is not just ready to host, but ready to set a benchmark for future sporting events in Nigeria