National Sports Festival: Why Delta State are favourites to win again, Official reveals
As the 22nd National Sports Festival kicks off today in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Delta State’s Assistant Secretary of the Hockey Association, Mr. Powell, has expressed confidence that the reigning champions will once again lift the prestigious trophy but insists their dominance is not by their own strength alone.
In an exclusive chat with SportsRations’ Nsikakabasi Akpan Powell emphasized that divine support has been key to Delta State’s consistent success at the biennial event.
Powell Interview about National Sports Festival with SportsRation
“It is not Delta State running this thing alone,” Powell said. “God is the one doing it for us and the same God will do it again.”
Delta State remains the traditional powerhouse in Nigerian sports, having won the last edition of the festival. However, with increased competition from emerging forces like Bayelsa State, who recently edged Delta at the NDDC Games in Uyo but Powell remains unfazed.
“You see, Delta State people, we love challenges so much. We grow with challenges. When you challenge Delta State, that is when you will see what you have not seen before,” he said. “And moreover, in Uyo, we did not go with the full team.”
When asked about the possibility of retaining the title in Ogun State, Powell was clear in his expectations: “By the grace of God, we will win it again.”
Powell also offered insight into what makes Delta State a dominant force at the Sports Festival and favourites to win the games again.
“We dedicate ourselves to training. If you come to Delta State, by 8pm we are still training while other people are sleeping. This enables us get to where we are today,” he noted.
With all 36 states and the FCT converging in Ogun State, Powell was pleased to witness the gathering of Nigeria’s sporting talents once again.
“From arrival, I am encouraged to see all states in Nigeria gather again. It’s been long we saw each other,” he said.
But even amid the camaraderie, Powell reminded everyone that once the competition starts, it’s business.
“This ground is a battleground where the athletes have come to fight for their medals , gold, silver, and bronze,” he declared.
The 22nd National Sports Festival officially opens today, Sunday, May 18, 2025, at the MKO Abiola International Stadium in Abeokuta and will run until May 30.
