Edo Take Command, Stand Tall Over Defending Champions Bayelsa as Niger Delta Games Enter Final Day

Hosts Edo State have consolidated an unassailable lead on the medals table as the Niger Delta Games enters its final day today in Benin City.
With the curtain set to fall on the 2026 edition tonight, Team Edo have amassed an imposing haul of 102 medals, made up of 50 gold, 30 silver and 22 bronze, a performance that underlines their dominance across several sporting events.
Closest challengers Delta State trail in second position with 91 medals — 34 gold, 26 silver and 31 bronze — while defending champions Bayelsa State, winners of the maiden edition in Uyo last year, sit third with 66 medals comprising 23 gold, 20 silver and 23 bronze.
Akwa Ibom State occupy fourth place with 47 medals (12 gold, 15 silver, 20 bronze). Abia State follow in fifth with 41 medals (8 gold, 17 silver, 16 bronze), while Cross River State are sixth on 35 medals (7 gold, 6 silver, 22 bronze).
Rivers State are seventh with 41 medals (6 gold, 16 silver, 19 bronze), Ondo State sit eighth with 32 medals (6 gold, 12 silver, 14 bronze), while Imo State remain at the foot of the table with 29 medals (4 gold, 8 silver, 17 bronze).
Although a few final events — including scrabble, football and relay races — will be decided today, officials say the remaining contests are unlikely to significantly alter the overall standings.
The 2nd Niger Delta Games, which began last Thursday, February 19, will climax tonight with a colourful closing ceremony at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium, scheduled to commence at 5pm.