The Niger Delta Development Commission will partner the Grassroots Sports Federation to organise the maiden U-17 Niger Delta Peace Cup 2021, tournament coordinator, John Ekpenyong, has said.

According to Ekpenyong, the catch-them-young programme, which will have all the states in the region- Edo, Delta, Akwa Ibom, Cross River, Bayelsa and Rivers – competing, is scheduled for March 15 to 28.

He added that the competition was part of efforts to prevent youth restiveness in the region, while harnessing the sporting potential of the youths.

A 25-man Local Organising Committee has been set up with Offiong Ephraim as chairman of the Technical Committee.

Other members of the LOC include Harrison Iyoma, Christopher Ekerendu, Akinshola Akamibobola, Ada Gwegwe, Kufre Inima, Usengs Eradiri, Augustine Eguaevon, Etim Esin, Emma Jemegah, Emanuel Akpan, Maurice Silas and Ben Emeka.

Others are Maxi Felix Ukpabi, Amed Tanko, Chris Essien, Abdullaq Uthman, Dr Jane Efiong, Joseph Akwa, Imoh Attah, Bob Osim and Iboro Udom.