The Federal Polytechnic, Offa, nestled in Kwara State, Nigeria, is poised to become the epicenter of collegiate sports from April 9th to 12th, 2025. The institution is rolling out the red carpet for 50 polytechnics from across the nation, all converging for the 22nd edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games, aptly tagged “IJAKADI 2025.” This landmark event signifies a historic first for the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, marking its inaugural hosting of the NIPOGA games in its 33-year history. Anticipation runs high as student-athletes, both male and female, prepare to showcase their prowess across a diverse range of sporting disciplines. The competition promises a thrilling display of athleticism in events including badminton, basketball, chess, tennis, athletics, football, handball, judo, scrabble, taekwondo, and volleyball.
Dr. Kamoru Kadiri, the Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, has expressed immense pride in hosting this prestigious event. He has emphasized the institution’s commitment to providing a world-class experience for all participants. Significant investments have been made to upgrade sporting facilities and equipment across both campuses of the polytechnic. A state-of-the-art multipurpose sports complex stands ready to host the competitions, reflecting the institution’s dedication to fostering a conducive environment for athletic excellence. Dr. Kadiri’s vision transcends mere medal counts; he envisions IJAKADI 2025 as a platform for forging connections, bridging divides, and celebrating the unifying power of sports. The games are intended to be a showcase of not only athletic talent but also sportsmanship, camaraderie, and inclusivity.
Beyond the sporting arena, extensive preparations have been undertaken to ensure the comfort and well-being of all participants. Hostel accommodations have undergone substantial renovations and reconstruction to provide comfortable lodging for the influx of student-athletes and officials. Medical provisions have also been meticulously addressed, with dedicated medical facilities and ambulance services readily available. The Rector has granted the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) full access to the institution’s medical resources, ensuring that any medical needs arising during the games are promptly and effectively addressed. A dedicated medical sub-committee, established by the LOC, stands ready to manage any unforeseen medical situations, further underscoring the commitment to participant welfare.
The significance of IJAKADI 2025 extends beyond the realm of sports. For the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, it represents a momentous occasion, highlighting the institution’s growth and development over the past three decades. The National Association of Strategic Communication and Media Students (NASCAMS), within the Department of Strategic Communication and Media Studies, has lauded the Rector’s leadership in securing the hosting rights for this national event. They have also extended their congratulations to Dr. David Oloyede, Dean of the School of Communication and Media Studies, and Dr. Jimoh Olorede, Head of the Department, for their contributions to this achievement. Hosting over 50 participating institutions is seen as a testament to the polytechnic’s rising prominence on the national stage.
The hosting of IJAKADI 2025 underscores the Federal Polytechnic, Offa’s commitment to holistic development, extending beyond academics to encompass sporting excellence. The event promises to be a celebration of athleticism, sportsmanship, and the unifying spirit of competition. It is a testament to the institution’s growth and its dedication to providing a platform for students to showcase their talents on a national stage. The meticulous preparations, from upgraded facilities to comprehensive medical provisions, speak volumes about the commitment to ensuring a successful and memorable event for all participants.
In essence, IJAKADI 2025 is more than just a sporting competition; it represents a convergence of athletic prowess, institutional pride, and the unifying power of sports. It is a platform for young athletes to shine, for institutions to connect, and for the Federal Polytechnic, Offa, to showcase its commitment to holistic development and its rising stature within the Nigerian educational landscape. The games symbolize the institution’s dedication to fostering a well-rounded educational experience, where athletic pursuits complement academic endeavors, creating a vibrant and dynamic campus environment. The legacy of IJAKADI 2025 is poised to extend far beyond the closing ceremonies, leaving an indelible mark on the history of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa.
