· Golf Kitty maintains its grip as Cultural Expo enthusiasm grows in Uyo

Victor Imeh Sampson from Akwa Ibom State clocked 46.12 seconds to claim the gold medal in the men’s 400 meters race at the current Niger Delta Sports Festival being held in Uyo.

The Akwa Ibom champion was pursued all the way to the finish line by David Akhalu, who secured the silver medal with a time of 46.58 seconds. Cross River State's Wisdom Alexander claimed the bronze medal with a timing of 47.57 seconds.

In the women’s 400 meters event, Ngozi Okereke Treasure from Delta State emerged as the champion with a time of 52.70 seconds. Odot Effiong from Akwa Ibom took home the silver medal clocking at 53.80 seconds, followed by Sunny Miracle from Rivers State who secured the bronze medal with a timing of 54.10 seconds.

In the women's table tennis doubles competition, Cross River secured the gold medal, with Bayelsa and Delta winning the silver and bronze medals respectively.

In the meantime, Sir Itiako Ikpokpo, who serves as the Managing Consultant for the Niger Delta Sports Festival, initiated the Golf Kitty event to mark the 25th anniversary of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC).

This comes as organizers ramp up their preparations for the Cultural Expo, with stages being set up and rehearsals now underway.

The event took place at the Ibom Golf and Country Club on Saturday morning alongside the sporting events. It forms part of the community engagement initiatives during the festival aimed at promoting social connections.

More than 130 golfers participated, with members from both the Main and Local Organising Committees for the Niger Delta Sports Festival present at the event.

The NDSF initiative, supported by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), aimed to accomplish multiple goals including identifying and developing athletic talent, promoting regional unity, and involving the local community.

"We have also offered an opportunity for game demonstrations with the aim of including them in future editions. Cricket and Rugby are examples of these games, and we will continue to refine the festival concept to incorporate additional sports," Ikpokpo stated to reporters during the event.

The festival included a Cultural Expo scheduled for April 7, as well as various performers from the nine designated regions who will showcase their talents in comedy, music, and hosting roles.

Edi Lawani, the nation's top entertainment promoter, stated that the Cultural Expo serves as a community engagement platform aimed at offering residents of Akwa Ibom State, members of the festival community, and visitors an opportunity to relax.

“More than 40 artists will perform as we offer music, comedy, dance, and a food court for everyone in Uyo to experience the spirit of the sports festival beyond the competition areas and create new social and professional connections,” stated Thick-Lawani, sporting his signature shorts and backpack.

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