14th Nigeria Police Games underway in Ibadan
The 14th edition of the biennial Nigeria Police Games will commence today in Ibadan, the capital of Oyo State with over 4,000 athletes from 17 zones competing for laurels.
Already the host state has reaffirmed its commitment to stage a world class event with the theme ‘competing for peace, unity, stability and development of the country.’
Speaking at the press briefing in Ibadan to herald the event, the Force PPRO, ACP Muyiwa Adejobi stated that the 14th biennial games will produce new talents for the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and the country at large.
He further revealed that the sporting event will promote peace, stability in the country and reduce crimes in the country.
“We are tired of hearing old names of athletes, many of them have retired and we want to use this games to recruit new talents that will represent Nigeria and West Africa in sporting activities.
“We are expecting over 4,000 athletes from the 17 zonal commands across the country. Our presence in Oyo State will improve security and economic status of the State,” said Adejobi.
He also commended the Oyo state government for accepting to host the 14th Police games stating that the state government has set the pace for others to follow.
Also speaking, the Commissioner of Youths and Sports in Oyo State, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, further reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to hold the sporting festival while declaring that the presence of police contingency and sports loving fans will improve the security and economic growth of the state.
On his part, the Chief Press Secretary to the Oyo State Governor, Pastor Olanrewaju Sulaimon said hosting the sporting event is a blessing to the state.
“Oyo State is fully ready and prepared to make the event a success. Without a doubt, new talents will be discovered. We are hopeful that the event will produce future Olympic winners for Nigeria. It will be an exciting event which will create a new dawn in sports in Nigeria,” he assured.