Akwa Ibom’s Victor Imeh Samson stormed to victory in the men’s 400 meters final at the ongoing Niger Delta Sports Festival, stopping the clock at 46.14 seconds to claim the coveted gold medal. The electrifying performance, which drew thunderous applause from the crowd, was not just a personal triumph for the young sprinter, it was a defining moment that marked the rise of a potential future Olympian.
Emerging from the blocks with the confidence of a seasoned athlete, Samson maintained a steady pace through the first 200 meters, gradually building momentum before unleashing a powerful surge on the home straight. His form was impeccable, his focus razor-sharp, and his finish commanding. Crossing the line ahead of his rivals, he raised his arms in victory, more in relief than celebration, knowing this was just the beginning of a long and demanding journey.
Speaking moments after his win, an emotional Imeh Samson dedicated his victory to the people of Akwa Ibom, his coaches, teammates, and especially Governor Umo Eno, whose administration has continued to invest in sports development across the state.
“I dedicate this gold to all Akwa Ibomites, the Governor, my coaches, and my teammates,” Samson said, sweat glistening on his brow but eyes burning with ambition. “This is not just about winning a medal; it’s about making a statement that Akwa Ibom has world-class athletes, and we’re ready to take on the world.”
“I dedicate this gold to all Akwa Ibomites, the Governor, my coaches, and my teammates,” Samson said, sweat glistening on his brow but eyes burning with ambition. “This is not just about winning a medal; it’s about making a statement that Akwa Ibom has world-class athletes, and we’re ready to take on the world.”
The 400 meters has long been a signature event in Nigeria’s athletics history, producing greats like Innocent Egbunike and Sunday Bada. For Imeh Samson, this win is more than just another title, it’s a stepping stone toward a dream he’s harbored since childhood: wearing the green and white at the Olympic Games, like his mentor and Olympic Gold medallist,
Enefiok Udo-Obong.
“I know I have to work even harder to achieve my dream of representing Nigeria at the Olympics,” he continued. “This is just a milestone. There’s more work to be done, and I’m ready to put in the effort.”
The win also highlights the growing dominance of Akwa Ibom State in regional sports competitions. Under the leadership of Governor Umo Eno and the state’s sports commissioner, Paul Bassey, the state has prioritized talent development, investing in facilities, training programs, and youth competitions to discover and nurture talents like Samson.
The 2025 edition of the Niger Delta Sports Festival has seen fierce competition among the region’s finest athletes, but Samson’s performance has been one of the standout moments so far. Analysts and coaches are already tipping him for national team inclusion, especially with the African Games and Olympic qualifiers looming.
As the celebrations continue in the Akwa Ibom camp, Samson remains grounded. “This is only the beginning,” he smiled. “I’m dreaming big, but I know big dreams require bigger sacrifices.”
