President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has hailed the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA 2026) as a strategic platform for cultivating a professional, disciplined, and performance-driven Nigeria Police Force.

Declaring the Games open on Saturday in Asaba, President Tinubu reaffirmed robust institutional and governmental backing for the event, hosted by Delta State.

The President, represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa (Rtd.), emphasised that security remains the bedrock of Nigeria’s economic growth, social stability, and national confidence.

“Service is not defined merely by authority or uniform, but by character, competence, and conduct,” the President stated, underscoring the Games’ theme, “Beyond the Badge: Excellence in Action.” He added, “A physically fit, mentally resilient, and morally grounded Police Force is indispensable to national security.”

Tinubu noted that sports transcend mere recreation, describing them as a strategic instrument for cohesion, stability, and institutional readiness. He highlighted that the Police Games, rooted in a tradition dating back to the 1940s, have consistently promoted fitness, teamwork, and community engagement while reinforcing operational preparedness across the Force.

Tinubu urged athletes to compete with honour and sportsmanship, stating, “Let fairness, discipline, and mutual respect guide your conduct on and off the field. This is not a do-or-die affair.”

Earlier, in his welcome address, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori assured participants from across the federation of a memorable sporting festival in a state widely recognised as a hub of sporting excellence.

Oborevwori remarked, “Delta State is proud to host this prestigious national event. Our track record in hosting major competitions speaks for itself. In recent years, this very venue has hosted the 21st African Senior Athletics Championships in 2018, the National Sports Festival, and the National Youth Games in 2023, all held consecutively within the last few years. Even this year, Delta State continues to play host to major sporting events.”

The Governor highlighted improved security in Delta, attributing the calm to effective collaboration among security agencies, and commended the leadership of the Nigeria Police Force for its professionalism. He reminded athletes that the Games celebrate strength, discipline, teamwork, and excellence, adding that “not everyone will return home with a medal, but no one who gives their best is a loser.” The Governor also recalled the Force’s legacy of producing world-class athletes, including Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medallist, and challenged participants to break new records and elevate Nigeria’s sporting profile.

The Chief Host and Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, described the Biennial Police Games as a critical pillar for strengthening professionalism, unity, and operational readiness within the Nigeria Police Force. He asserted that the Games extend beyond sports, stressing that “policing is not only about enforcement, but about endurance, agility, teamwork, resilience, and strength of character.” He noted that modern policing demands physical and mental fitness, declaring that “a fit officer is a safe officer, and a disciplined competitor is a disciplined professional.”

Commending Delta State for hosting the Games, he described Asaba as “a centre of organisation, hospitality, and sporting excellence,” and praised the collaboration between the Police Force and the state government in promoting youth development and national unity.

A highlight of the ceremony, attended by top serving and retired police officers, including a retired Inspector General of Police, was an impressive march-past by contingents from the 17 Zonal Commands of the Nigeria Police Force and the Force Headquarters, Abuja. This was followed by the symbolic lighting of the Games torch and the formal swearing of oaths of allegiance and fair play by athletes and officials. The ceremony was further enlivened by the arrival of the Games mascot and the hoisting of the Games flag, setting a vibrant tone for the commencement of the 15th Biennial Police Games, Asaba 2026.

We’ve got the edge. Get real-time reports, breaking scoops, and exclusive angles delivered straight to your phone. Don’t settle for stale news. Join LEADERSHIP NEWS on WhatsApp for 24/7 updates →

Join Our WhatsApp Channel