Edo2026: Team Edo Tops Medal Table with 22 Gold, Enabulele Urges Focus Amid Early Lead


By Elvis Omoregie, Benin 

Host state Edo has surged to the top of the medals table at the ongoing second edition of the Niger Delta Games tagged Edo 2026, following a dominant showing in swimming and weightlifting events.

As of 7pm on Day Four, Team Edo had secured 22 gold, 12 silver and 13 bronze medals, bringing its total haul to 47 medals. Delta State trailed in second position with 14 gold, 19 silver and 11 bronze medals (44 total), while Bayelsa occupied third place with 13 gold, 7 silver and 11 bronze medals (31 total).

The host state further strengthened its position late into the evening as athletes competing in chess, traditional wrestling and other events added to the gold tally.

The Executive Chairman of the Edo State Sports Commission, Hon. Amadin Desmond Enabulele, attributed the team’s impressive performance to strategic planning, disciplined execution and early preparation ahead of the competition.

According to him, a 12-day closed camping programme organised for the athletes provided the structure and mental conditioning required for high-level performance.

“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 while speaking with sports journalists in Benin City.

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

Despite the commanding lead, Enabulele cautioned against complacency, stressing that the competition remains open with several events yet to be concluded.

“This is only Day Four. We must not celebrate too early. I urge 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,” he said.

He commended athletes and coaches for standout performances across swimming, athletics, para powerlifting, chess, taekwondo and weightlifting, describing Team Edo as a formidable force at the Games.

“I must specially applaud our athletes and coaches for their exceptional outings. Their dedication and fighting spirit have not only strengthened our lead but have positioned Edo State as a dominant force in this competition,” he added.

With the Games still underway, attention now turns to whether Edo can consolidate its early dominance and maintain momentum through to the closing ceremony.

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