Niger Delta Games In Edo: Cross River Mobilizes 1, 200 Athletes, Directs LGAs On Talent Identification

Urgent Directive to Local Government Areas

NIGERIA , CALABAR – In preparation for the 2nd Niger Delta Games, scheduled from February 20–27, 2026, in Benin City, the Cross River State Sports Commission has issued an urgent directive to all 18 Local Government Areas (LGAs) to prioritize grassroots talent identification.

Chairman Etta Lawrence Itanya expressed displeasure over perceived negligence by some LGAs in mobilizing athletes, emphasizing that the responsibility for scouting Under-20 (U-20) athletes lies with local government structures.

“To ensure a competitive Team Cross River, LGA leadership must conduct comprehensive searches in remote villages and interlands, adhering strictly to discipline, transparency, and merit,” Lawrence said.

The directive highlights that the final state selection trials will begin Wednesday, January 21, 2026, at the U.J. Esuene Stadium, Calabar, making it the last opportunity for athletes to secure a spot in the state contingent.

Registration Portal and Regional Coordination

Lawrence noted that a central registration portal is already operational, ensuring all eligible athletes are documented before final trials.

Neighboring states like Akwa Ibom and Imo have reportedly completed similar rosters, putting additional pressure on Cross River to finalize its list.

“Delays in talent mobilization cannot be tolerated.

.Any LGA official found stalling the process will be considered working against Governor Bassey Otu’s sports development policy,” the chairman warned.

He reiterated that the Niger Delta Games are a strategic platform to discover young talent beyond oil, aiming to produce a new generation of sports professionals capable of representing the state at national and international competitions.

Preparing Team Cross River for Edo 2026

The commission confirmed that over 1,200 athletes from all local governments have been mobilized to Calabar for trials, marking an unprecedented turnout in the state’s sports history.

Lawrence explained that the trials are not merely about participation but performance, discipline, and readiness, with selected athletes to be housed in hotels for the first time during pre-competition preparation.

“When you motivate athletes psychologically and physically, they give you results. Nutrition, accommodation, and structured training ensure that athletes can compete at their best in Edo,” Lawrence said.

The commission highlighted that adequate welfare, daily rations, and proper logistical support have been provided for athletes during the selection process, reflecting a holistic approach to youth development.

Commitment to Meritocracy and Accountability
Lawrence warned that the commission would not tolerate any attempt to disenfranchise exceptional talent, stressing that officials must execute their duties transparently.

“All Local Government Area leaders must ensure that merit determines selection. The future of Team Cross River depends on fair scouting and accountability,” she stated.

The directive aligns with Governor Bassey Otu’s policy of using sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment and professional development, particularly in underrepresented communities and rural areas.

Football Context: Rovers FC and Athlete Development

In related developments, Truth live news had reported that the Rovers Football Club, Calabar, has appointed Abdullahi Umar as its new technical coach, reflecting the state’s emphasis on results-driven sports leadership.

Chairman Etim E. Okon said the move was necessary to restore competitiveness, explaining that the club manages about ₦20 million monthly, enough for approximately 36 players, while appealing for additional support to sustain development.

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“We are not looking for coaches to come and hang around. What distinguishes this coach is results, especially the promotion of Rovers FC back to the Premier League,” Okon said.

Coach Umar assured that team cohesion, discipline, and collective responsibility would define his technical strategy.

“Anything, anytime we are aware of issues, we try to integrate players. Now, all players are working together with no distinction,” Umar said.

The appointment of Umar complements the state’s broader vision of athlete mobilization and talent discovery, linking football development to the success of Team Cross River in multi-sport events.

Final Preparations Ahead of Edo 2026

The final window for athlete selection represents a critical juncture, as LGAs are expected to complete scouting and ensure only deserving talents are advanced to trials.

Lawrence emphasized that the state government remains fully committed to unearthing promising athletes, providing welfare, accommodation, and technical support to ensure Cross River athletes deliver top performance at the Niger Delta Games.

The Niger Delta Games are more than competition; they are a platform to showcase talent, instill discipline, and identify future stars,” Lawrence said.

Officials confirmed that selected athletes will undergo comprehensive training, nutrition plans, and psychological preparation to maximize performance and medal prospects in Edo.

Outlook and Accountability

Both the Cross River State Sports Commission and Rovers FC leadership are aligned on principles of meritocracy, accountability, and professional development, ensuring that talent identification and athlete welfare receive top priority.

“Deliberate action, rather than excuses, drives success. LGAs, coaches, and officials must collaborate to ensure that Cross River’s representation in Edo is competitive, disciplined, and merit-based,” Lawrence concluded.

As the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Edo State approach, Cross River’s proactive measures in talent mobilization and coaching reform highlight the state’s commitment to sports excellence and youth empowerment, setting the stage for robust performance across all disciplines.