By: Adeboye Ado

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Screening and selection of athletes took place at the Adekunle Ajashin University Akungba (AAUA) ahead of the forthcoming Niger Delta Sports festival.

Athletes in their numbers participated in three ball games trials which including: Football, Basketball and Volleyball.

The screening led by the state Liaison Committee members accompanied by professional coaches who monitored and coordinated the selection process.

A good number of outstanding athletes were selected for final trials slated for Akure,the state capital before departure for the game proper in Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State, capital from the 1st through the 9th of April, 2025.

A member of the liaison committee, Akintunde Akinsemola said the state was looking for the best athletes irrespective of where they come from.

He added that he was satisfied by the level of turnout for the event which showed that the group was on the right track with the way it was going about the trials.

The Director of Sports, Adekunle Ajashin University Akungba, Mr. Lawal Akorede has expressed optimism that students selected will make the final list for the festival proper and will surely make Ondo State proud.

Akorede commended the state Liaison Committee for a job well done by throwing the screening open to all participants, describing the trials as exciting and full of potential.

He expressed confidence that the selected athletes from Akungba Akoko and its environs would make the fine shot to represent Ondo State at the maiden Niger Delta Sports festival.

“The students are eager and enthusiastic about making the state proud ,Ondo State will definitely perform up to the expected standard,” he said.

He acknowledged the efforts of the university’s coaches in preparing the students ahead of the trials.

“The coaches have done a great job in ensuring that the athletes are well-prepared before the arrival of the selection officials. The foundation has been laid, and we believe they will build on it during the festival,” he added.

He advised the students to remain dedicated, disciplined, and committed to their goals, urging them to uphold the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the remaining trials and the game proper.