Team Delta has explained why it settled for second place at the just-concluded 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin City, maintaining that its focus has shifted from aggressive medal pursuit to long-term talent development.
The team, which also placed second at the maiden edition of the Games in Uyo last year behind Bayelsa, again finished as runners-up—this time behind host state, Edo.
Reacting to the outcome, the Executive Chairman of the Delta State Sports Commission, Hon. Joshua Onoriode Oborevwori, said the result reflects a deliberate change in direction by the commission. According to him, Delta has moved away from a system centred on winning at all costs—including the recruitment of athletes from other states—to a structure that prioritises grassroots sports development.
He explained that the new approach focuses on identifying and nurturing young talents from primary and secondary schools as well as local communities, rather than relying on last-minute transfers or athlete poaching.
Oborevwori acknowledged that the new strategy may not immediately deliver the dominant medal haul traditionally associated with Delta State. However, he expressed confidence that the long-term benefits would outweigh short-term podium expectations, both for the state and for Nigeria’s sports sector.
The commission, he added, plans to restructure sports associations across the state. Under the proposed changes, leadership positions will be based strictly on competence and coaching experience, replacing the current system where seniority often determines appointments.
He also commended the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) and Dunamis Icon Limited for organising the Games, and praised Team Delta athletes and officials for their dedication throughout the competition. Appreciation was equally extended to Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for his continued backing of the state’s sports programmes.
Meanwhile, the Games recorded disciplinary actions, as host Team Edo forfeited six medals after one of its swimmers was stripped of five gold and one silver medals over eligibility concerns. In addition, five athletes from various states were disqualified for switching allegiances shortly before the competition.