BENIN — As the Niger Delta Games tagged Edo2026 entered Day Four, the Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, has charged Team Edo athletes and coaches to remain focused and determined to sustain the state’s commanding lead on the medals table.

In a statement issued Monday by his Media Officer, Edoko Wilson Edoko, Enabulele expressed satisfaction with Team Edo’s impressive outing so far, attributing the early success to strategic planning, discipline and thorough preparation ahead of the competition.

According to him, the 12-day intensive camping organised for the athletes played a crucial role in building team spirit and sharpening their competitive edge.

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

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

While commending the team for their early dominance, Enabulele warned against complacency, stressing that the Games are still ongoing and that greater effort is required to consolidate Edo’s advantage.

“This is only Day Four. We must not celebrate too early. I charge our athletes and coaches to remain focused, stay disciplined and continue to harvest gold medals for Edo State. The mission is not just to lead, but to finish strong.

“Every event presents another opportunity to demonstrate excellence, and I am confident that Team Edo will continue to rise to the occasion.”

He further praised Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, for his unwavering support and commitment to sports development in the state.

“I must sincerely appreciate our dynamic Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, whose consistent support and investment in sports have created an enabling environment for our athletes to thrive. His administration has prioritised youth development and the welfare of athletes and coaches, and the results are evident at these Games. Therefore, let us always keep the Governor’s mandate at the forefront of our minds, we are not just hosting the Games, we are determined to win.” he added.

Enabulele also commended Team Edo athletes and coaches for their outstanding performances in Sunday’s Swimming, Athletics, Para Powerlifting, Chess and Taekwondo events, noting that their remarkable displays of strength, skill and determination have further solidified Edo’s position at the top of the medals table.

“I must specially applaud our athletes and coaches for their exceptional outings in Swimming, Athletics, Para Powerlifting, Chess and Taekwondo. Their dedication, discipline and fighting spirit have not only strengthened our lead at the Games but have also positioned Edo State as a formidable force, not just regionally, but in Nigerian sports as a whole,” he stated.

As of Day Four, Edo State leads the medal standings with 15 gold, 6 silver and 10 bronze medals — a total of 30 medals. Delta State follows with 9 gold, 11 silver and 8 bronze medals (28 total), while Bayelsa State sits third with 8 gold, 2 silver and 5 bronze medals (15 total).

Enabulele reaffirmed confidence in Team Edo’s capacity to maintain momentum and secure overall victory at the ongoing regional Games.