An athlete from Akwa Ibom State, Hephzibah Okon, has dedicated her gold medal victory at the 2nd Niger Delta Games in Benin to the state governor and sports administrators for their unwavering support.

 

Okon clinched the gold medal in the 800 metres event, posting an impressive time of 2:18 minutes to secure the top podium finish for Team Akwa Ibom.

 

Speaking shortly after her victory, the elated middle-distance runner expressed gratitude to the state government for its consistent encouragement and investment in sports development.

 

“I am really happy to win this gold for Team Akwa Ibom. The support from our State Government, led by our amazing, sports-loving Governor, Umo Eno, the Honourable Commissioner, and sports administrators has kept us motivated to give our best every day,” she said.

 

“This is why I’m dedicating the gold medal to the Governor, the Sports Commissioner, and others involved with sports in the state.”

 

Okon, who has quickly emerged as one of the promising young athletes from the Niger Delta region, has now set her sights on representing Nigeria at senior-level international competitions in the near future.

 

In recognition of her performance, she has also earned an invitation to participate in the National Youth Festival in 2025, where she will compete alongside international junior athletes.

 

“I will continue to do my best to put Akwa Ibom State on the world sporting map,” she pledged.

 

Meanwhile, host state Edo State currently tops the medals table after Day 2 of competition. Edo has amassed 15 gold and six silver medals. Delta State follows in second place with nine gold and 11 silver medals, while Bayelsa State occupies third position with eight gold and two silver medals.

 

The Games, which commenced on February 20 with a colourful opening ceremony in Benin, will conclude on February 26. State contingents and officials are scheduled to depart on February 27.

 

The Niger Delta Games is organised by Dunamis-Icon Limited and sponsored by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).