The Nigeria Police Force has formally opened the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA 2026) at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, reaffirming its commitment to physical fitness, teamwork, professionalism, and national cohesion as critical pillars of effective policing.
The colourful opening ceremony in Asaba was graced by the Special Guest of Honour, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd). Also in attendance were the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori; the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; former Inspectors-General of Police including Suleiman Abba (Rtd), Ogbonnaya Onovo (Rtd), Mohammed D. Abubakar (Rtd), and Mike Mbama Okiro (Rtd); the Chairman of the Police Service Commission, DIG Hashimu Salihu Argungu (Rtd), represented by DIG Taiwo Lakanu (Rtd); heads of other security agencies; senior Delta State officials; and the President of POWA, Dr. (Mrs) Elizabeth Egbetokun, among other dignitaries.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori commended the Nigeria Police Force for its sustained efforts in safeguarding lives and property, noting that the dedication and sacrifices of officers continue to strengthen peace, stability, and public confidence.
In his address, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, warmly welcomed guests and participating athletes, describing the Games as more than a sporting tradition. He emphasised that BIPOGA serves as a strategic platform to enhance operational readiness, resilience, teamwork, and character development within the Force.
Highlighting the continuity of the 15th edition from previous outings, including Ibadan 2024, the IGP noted that the Games reflect the Force’s enduring commitment to talent discovery, unity, and institutional pride. He charged athletes to compete with excellence and integrity, upholding the highest standards of professionalism and discipline.
BIPOGA, which began as an athletics championship in the 1940s and became a biennial event from Bauchi ’86, has historically produced world-class athletes who brought honour to Nigeria on global stages. Among them are Chioma Ajunwa-Opara (Rtd), the late ACP Sam Igun, late ACP Sunday Oyarekhua, Adamu Musa, Ikpoto Eseme, Anthony Oyakhire, Mamman Makama, late SP Sunday Bada, SP Samuel Peters, SP Loveth-Patra Ekufu, and DSP Kikelomo Ajayi, who excelled at the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, World Championships, and other continental competitions.
The 15th edition features a record 37 sporting events across disciplines including athletics, football, boxing, wrestling, swimming, taekwondo, weightlifting, volleyball, shooting sports, cycling, and mixed martial arts.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated its resolve to leverage sports as a tool for officer wellness, operational preparedness, and professional excellence.
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