The 22nd Nigeria Polytechnics Games, NIPOGA, themed “Ijakadi 2025,” commenced at the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kwara State, amidst assurances from the Federal Ministry of Education that the government’s plan to streamline the university degree with the Higher National Diploma (HND) would not impact the continuation of the games. Dr. Tunji Alausa, the Minister of Education, conveyed this message through Dr. Ejeh Usman, the Director of Polytechnic and Allied Education, emphasizing that the government’s focus is on addressing the HND/University degree dichotomy, not eliminating polytechnics altogether. The minister clarified that polytechnics wishing to award degrees could apply for accreditation from both the National Universities Commission (NUC) and the National Board for Technical Education (NBTE), potentially holding a dual mandate. This clarification sought to allay concerns about the future of polytechnics and their associated sporting events.
The minister’s representative, Dr. Usman, expressed satisfaction with the quality of the NIPOGA Games’ organization by the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and reiterated the government’s full support for the event. He highlighted the importance of sports in education, emphasizing that a complete education integrates both academic pursuits and sporting activities. This underscores the government’s recognition of the role of sports in holistic development and its commitment to fostering sporting talent among polytechnic students. The Ministry’s endorsement of the NIPOGA Games further solidifies its place within the Nigerian educational landscape.
The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, Kadiri Kamoru, celebrated the institution’s achievement in securing the hosting rights for the games, a first in its over 30-year history. He expressed gratitude to stakeholders for their contributions and hailed the event as a historic moment for the institution. With over 5,000 participants competing in 12 different sports and nationwide broadcast coverage, the games provided a national platform to showcase the sporting prowess of Nigerian polytechnic students. The Rector’s pride in the event reflects the importance of NIPOGA not just for the athletes, but for the host institution and the wider community.
Alhaji Moshood Ojikutu, Chairman of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and Senator Lola Ashiru, representing Kwara South Senatorial District, echoed the significance of the NIPOGA Games in fostering unity among Nigerian youths. They emphasized the role of sports in bridging divides and promoting camaraderie among students from different institutions across the country. This unifying element of the games underscores their social and cultural importance beyond the realm of competition and athletic achievement. The shared experience of participating in and supporting the games fosters a sense of national identity and shared purpose among the youth.
The hosting of the NIPOGA Games by the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, represented a significant milestone for the institution, showcasing its capabilities and commitment to sporting excellence. The event brought together thousands of students from various polytechnics across Nigeria, providing them with a platform to compete, interact, and build lasting relationships. The nationwide broadcast coverage further amplified the event’s reach, exposing a broader audience to the talents and achievements of these young athletes. The success of the games served as a testament to the collaborative efforts of the institution, the Ministry of Education, and various stakeholders.
Beyond the immediate competition and athletic achievements, the NIPOGA Games serve a broader social and cultural purpose. They provide an opportunity for students from diverse backgrounds to connect, fostering unity and understanding among Nigerian youth. The games also promote the importance of physical activity and healthy competition, contributing to the overall well-being of the participants. The government’s continued support for the games, even amidst educational reforms, underscores their value and importance in the Nigerian educational system. As the NIPOGA Games continue to thrive, they will continue to play a vital role in developing well-rounded individuals and fostering a sense of national unity among Nigerian youth.
