Ahead of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, scheduled to hold from April 1 to April 9, 2025, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, the final screening of Ondo athletes has been concluded.

The process, held at the Ondo State Sports Complex, saw a large turnout of athletes who participated in trials across various sports, including basketball, volleyball, handball, boxing, traditional wrestling, chess, tennis, and weightlifting, among others.

It was a moment of passion and determination as athletes from the 18 local government areas converged on the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, for the final trials before camping and departure for the main event in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State.

The screening exercise was conducted under the supervision of professional coaches from the state, who coordinated the selection process.

One of the nine ambassadors of the Niger Delta Sports Festival, Seun Ogunkoya, commended the level of preparedness and the commitment of athletes and coaches towards achieving a successful outing.

He lauded the liaison committee for providing an enabling environment for the trials.

“This is my first time seeing such a strong turnout of potential athletes in the state. From what I have observed, we are good to go. My expectation is to be part of the victory, and with what I have seen, we are well prepared,” he said.

Similarly, a coach with the Ondo State Swimming Association, Monday Mobgojuri, said the association had filled all the required categories for the competition.

Mobgojuri expressed confidence that the athletes selected for the tournament would win medals for the state.

Volleyball coach, Oluwaseun Afuye, expressed satisfaction with the quality of athletes selected after extensive scouting efforts at the grassroots level before the final screening.

While commending the organisers, he noted that the event would engage youths meaningfully and help them reach their full potential.

Also, handball coach, Ronke Saliu, stated that the turnout demonstrated that Team Ondo was on the right track to compete for top honours.

She expressed confidence that those who made the final selection would perform to expectations and make the state proud.

Boxing head coach, Osifo Moses, noted that the festival would provide a platform for young athletes in Ondo State to showcase their hidden talents.

Others advised the selected athletes to remain dedicated, disciplined, and committed to their goals while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship throughout the competition.