The Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF) Torch Tour made its grand stop in Owerri, Imo State, as part of its journey across the nine states under the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC). The arrival coincided with Imo’s final trials, where over 670 athletes competed for a spot in the state’s contingent.
The festival torch was received on March 27 at the Dan Anyiam Stadium, with legendary Nigerian footballer Emmanuel Amuneke, MFR, serving as the state’s Festival Ambassador. From there, it was carried in a spirited procession to the Government House Gate, where Amuneke officially handed it over to Hon. Obinna Evaristus Onyeocha, the Imo State Commissioner for Sports. The Commissioner then presented it to Governor Hope Uzodinma in a brief but symbolic ceremony.
Imo’s Final Athlete Selection for NDSF
The state trials, held over two days at Dan Anyiam Stadium, saw over 1,000 athletes competing for a chance to represent Imo at the NDSF, scheduled for April 1-8 in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State. After rigorous screening, 430 top athletes were selected and will enter a closed training camp from March 29 until departure on April 1.
The selection process was closely supervised by the State Liaison Committee, led by Commissioner Onyeocha and Secretary Hon. Willie Okolieogwo, ensuring fairness and compliance with festival regulations.
