The Rivers State Government is gearing up to host the 43rd Annual Public Service Games, aptly titled the “Simplified Rivers Games 2024.” Set to take place from November 27 to December 5, 2024, the games will be held across five venues in Port Harcourt and the adjacent Obio/Akpor Local Government Area. Dr. Tammy Danagogo, the Secretary to the State Government, made this announcement during a media briefing attended by officials including Aloku Amaebi, the President of the Federation of Public Service Games, and Dr. George Nwake, the State Head of Service and Chairman of the Local Organising Committee. The event marks a significant occasion as it brings together athletes from all 36 states in Nigeria, contributing to both the local economy and the visibility of sports within the civil service.
Governor Siminalayi Fubara has officially approved the hosting of these games, assuring both the organizing committee and participating athletes of a memorable experience. Danagogo expressed the government’s commitment to ensuring a successful tournament, mentioning that the chosen venues — including the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre and Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium — are being prepared to meet the needs of the athletes and officials. He emphasized the state’s readiness and expressed gratitude to the national federation for organizing the event, highlighting the potential benefits for civil servants and the broader public.
The games are significant not only for fostering sportsmanship but also for promoting the wellbeing of civil servants across Nigeria. Danagogo noted that the event represents a “win-win” situation, offering participants opportunities to engage in sports, network, and showcase their talents. The event brings a sense of unity and competitive spirit to civil servants, which, according to Danagogo, is essential for building morale and productivity in the public service sector. He assured all stakeholders of the state’s warm hospitality and the safety provisions in place for all attendees.
Aloku Amaebi, the President of the Federation of Public Service Games, highlighted the large scale of the event, with expectations of approximately 10,000 participants, including athletes and officials. He praised Rivers State for hosting the games for the second time, recalling a previous successful event under the former governor, Dr. Peter Odili. Amaebi outlined the various sports that will be contested, including football, volleyball, tennis, chess, and badminton, alongside some para-sports for athletes with disabilities. The anticipated involvement of such a large contingent of participants underscores the cultural and economic significance of the games for Rivers State.
Amaebi further emphasized that the games provide a unique platform for showcasing the sports talents of civil servants, who have historically been overshadowed by military and paramilitary organizations in athletic competitions. The event allows for the recognition of talents that could pave the way for professional sports careers at both national and international levels. The potential economic uplift from the event is immense, as it not only fosters tourism and commerce but also provides informal job opportunities in hospitality and support services during the games.
Dr. George Nwaeke, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, reiterated the extensive preparations underway to ensure the games run smoothly. He noted that all venues are being appropriately updated to accommodate the athletes and officials. Nwaeke highlighted the myriad benefits of hosting such an event, including enhanced networking opportunities, improved morale among civil servants, and increased commercial activities within the state. Governor Fubara’s support for hosting the games is indicative of a commitment to national development, promoting sports as a vital tool for community engagement and economic growth. Collectively, the “Simplified Rivers Games 2024” promise to be an event of significant impact for both the state and its citizens.
