The torch of the 2026 Niger Delta Games has arrived in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State capital, marking the state’s formal entry into the regional sporting event scheduled to hold in Edo State from February 20 to 27, 2026.

The torch, symbolising unity, peace, and strength, was received at the Globe Roundabout along Wellington Bassey Way after a colourful procession led by Commonwealth Games bronze medalist Edidiong Umoafia and other notable Akwa Ibom athletes.

Receiving the torch on behalf of the state, Governor Umo Eno, represented by the Commissioner for Education, Professor Ubong Umoh, affirmed Akwa Ibom’s readiness to participate in the games under the spirit of fair competition and regional unity.

He described the initiative as a vital platform for harnessing the region’s sporting potential beyond oil.

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“The theme of the games, Beyond Oil: Harnessing Talents, succinctly reminds us, as leaders, that beyond our bountiful natural riches, there lies a plethora of potentialities that can be harnessed into hastening the progress and development of our region,” the governor said.

The Commissioner for Sports and Chairman of the State Liaison Committee, Paul Bassey, said the Niger Delta Games would deliver wide benefits, praising Dunamis-Icon Limited for the professionalism brought to its organisation and commending the NDDC for supporting the initiative as a way of giving back to society.

The torch was later handed over to officials of Abia State, the next stop in the regional tour, as organisers assured of a well-coordinated and hitch-free competition in Edo State.

After touring the other eight Niger Delta states, the games torch is expected to arrive at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City, Edo State, where it will remain lit from the opening ceremony on February 20 until the closing ceremony on February 26, before being handed over to the next host state.