By Peter Onyekachukwu 
By Peter Onyekachukwu, Uyo
The volleyball courts at the ongoing Niger Delta Sports Festival in Uyo came alive on Day 1 as states battled for supremacy, with Delta and Bayelsa emerging early contenders in both the men’s and women’s categories.
From powerful spikes to nail-biting finishes, fans at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium witnessed intense matchups that set the tone for what promises to be a fiercely contested tournament.
In the men’s fixtures, Delta edged Cross River 2-1 in a tense game that kept spectators on their feet. Delta’s coach expressed satisfaction with the team’s resilience. “Our boys showed grit and character. It wasn’t an easy match, but they fought hard till the last point,” he said.
Rivers also started strong, brushing aside Imo 2-0 in straight sets, while Abia dispatched Bayelsa with a clinical 2-0 victory. Ondo stunned hosts Akwa Ibom 2-0, and Imo bounced back to hand Edo a 2-0 defeat earlier in the day.
In the women’s category, Bayelsa proved dominant, recording two wins—first overwhelming Imo 2-0 and later defeating Abia in similar fashion. Delta’s female team also impressed, silencing the home crowd with a 2-0 sweep of Akwa Ibom.
Rivers women matched their male counterparts with a commanding 2-0 win over Ondo, while Cross River dispatched Edo 2-0 to stay in contention.
Coach of the Bayelsa women’s team said their performance was only the beginning. “We came here to compete and win. The girls are focused, and we’re taking it one game at a time,” she stated.
As the festival continues, volleyball fans can expect more thrilling encounters, as state teams push for medals and regional bragging rights in #Uyo2025.