2026 NDGs: Team Edo Takes Early Lead As Enabulele Sounds Warning Against Complacency

 

By Idahosa Musa

Host state Team Edo, has surged to the top of the medals table at the ongoing second edition of the Niger Delta Games (NDGs), tagged Edo 2026, following a blistering run of performances across several key events.

As of the close of competitions on Day Four, Team Edo led the standings with 22 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals, totalling 47 medals.

Delta State trailed closely with 14 gold, 19 silver and 11 bronze medals (44 total), while Bayelsa State occupied third position with 13 gold, 7 silver and 11 bronze medals (31 total).

Edo’s commanding lead was driven largely by dominant displays in swimming and weightlifting, with further gold medal successes recorded in chess, traditional wrestling and other events. By 7:00 p.m.

On Day Four alone, the host state had added seven or more gold medals to its tally.

Reacting to the team’s strong showing, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Amadin Desmond Enabulele, expressed delight with the athletes’ performances but cautioned against early celebrations.

Enabulele attributed Edo’s impressive start to deliberate planning, strict discipline and early preparation, particularly a 12-day closed camping programme organised ahead of the Games.

“Our decision to embark on a 12-day closed camping was deliberate and strategic. It allowed our athletes to bond, train rigorously and develop the winning mentality required for a competition of this magnitude.

“What we are witnessing is not accidental. It is the product of careful planning, technical discipline and the resilience of our athletes”, he said

Despite the early dominance, Enabulele warned that the competition remains wide open, urging athletes and coaches to maintain focus and intensity.

“This is only Day Four. We must not celebrate too early. The mission is not just to lead the medals table, but to finish strong.

Our athletes and coaches must remain disciplined and continue to push for excellence,” he stressed.

The sports commission boss also praised Team Edo’s athletes and coaches for their outstanding performances in swimming, athletics, para powerlifting, chess, taekwondo and weightlifting, describing their efforts as a statement of intent.

With several events still to be decided, all eyes remain on Team Edo to see whether the host state can sustain its momentum and convert its early dominance into overall victory at Edo 2026