Nigeria, Feb. 17 -- The Niger Delta Sports Festival is set to make its debut in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from 1 to 9 April, with no fewer than 3,000 athletes competing across 17 sports.

The event, an initiative of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), aims to revive the region's legacy of producing elite athletes and provide a structured pathway for young talents.

Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos at the weekend, Project Consultant Itiako Ikpokpo emphasised that the festival is designed to identify and nurture the next generation of athletes from the region.

"The Niger Delta was once the breeding ground for Nigeria's top athletes, but in recent years, talent development has dwindled. The NDDC, having made significant strides ...