Team Ondo has become the first contingent to arrive in Uyo ahead of the much-anticipated Niger Delta Sports Festival (NDSF), which kicks off on April 1.

The delegation, comprising 313 athletes and 56 coaches, touched down on Sunday evening, setting the pace for other states expected at the regional sporting event.

Despite the official arrival date being days away, the Ondo contingent opted for an early journey due to the long distance and the logistical demands of transporting such a large team.

They were warmly received by members of the festival’s Accommodation, Transport, and Administration Committees, ensuring a smooth transition to their camp after undergoing accreditation.

Co-Chairman of the Main Organising Committee, Itiako Ikpokpo, explained the decision to welcome the team ahead of schedule, emphasizing the organizers’ commitment to making the festival a memorable experience for all participants.

“We are committed to ensuring that all participants enjoy pleasant experiences throughout this first-of-its-kind festival. We decided to receive the Ondo team earlier than planned, even at extra cost, to facilitate their seamless integration into the event,” Ikpokpo stated.

Mrs. Tolu Adeyemi, leader of the Ondo delegation and Permanent Secretary in the state’s Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, commended the organisers for their efforts.

“We must acknowledge and appreciate the magnanimity of the organisers for going the extra mile to host us ahead of the scheduled arrival date.

This warm reception reassures us that the festival will live up to all the expectations set during our preparatory meetings,” Adeyemi said.

Some of the athletes, experiencing a sporting event of this scale for the first time outside Ondo, expressed gratitude to the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) for making their participation possible.

“After qualifying from the local government trials and excelling in the state finals last week, it all felt like a dream until we boarded the vehicle to Uyo.

Arriving here is an incredible experience, and I am determined to make the most of it,” said Michael Akinsiku, captain of the Ondo athletics team.

The Niger Delta Sports Festival, scheduled to run from April 1 to 8, will feature competitions in 17 sports across five venues in Uyo.