A New Benchmark In NIPOGA : The FEDPOFFA Example
By Olayinka Iroye
The just concluded 22nd edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA), tagged IJAKADI 2024 and hosted by The Federal Polytechnic Offa, Kwara State has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s Polytechnic sporting history. The event, which spanned ten exhilarating days, was nothing short of a spectacle in organisation, participation, and sportsmanship, a feat worthy of the highest commendation.
My journey into organized sports began during my senior secondary school years at Government Secondary School, Ilorin. Back then, a number of us were invited by the Kwara State Sports Council to camp at the Kwara State Stadium in preparation for a national sporting events. I recall, it was the Oluyole Games. Kwara State spared no expense in preparing us; modern facilities, professional coaching (my Badminton coach at that time was already a National Coach), and generous support were provided. That early investment bore fruit; Kwara State performed exceptionally well and outshone previous outings, even in comparison to the then host, old Oyo State.
That experience remained with me through my college years at the Federal College of Education, Kontagora, Niger State where I represented the institution in Badminton and other sporting events. It shaped me into a Sports Administrator, eventually serving as a Games Master at St. Clare’s Grammar School, Offa, PRO of Offa/Oyun Games Masters Association, and also representing The Federal Polytechnic Offa in NIPOSSGA for Badminton.
It was this nostalgic backdrop that made the closing ceremony of the 22nd NIPOGA Games at The Federal Polytechnic Offa so touching and inspiring. Memories of the past came alive as I witnessed a new standard of excellence set by a host Institution that went above and beyond expectations.
*The Federal Polytechnic Offa’s performance as host of the 22nd NIPOGA Games is nothing short of historic. The institution did not merely host a sporting event, it orchestrated a national festival of unity, discipline, and excellence. Facilities were top-notch, logistics ran smoothly, and the atmosphere was vibrant and welcoming. By all standards, it was a textbook example of how to host a national event.*
Special accolades must go to the Rector, Engr. Dr. Kamoru Kadiri, whose visionary leadership and commitment to excellence ensured that no aspect of the event was overlooked. Every requirement; infrastructure, welfare, security, and hospitality was met with remarkable efficiency and thoroughness. The Local Organising Committee (LOC), ably led by Dr. Ishaq Salman, alongside its Sub Committees, worked tirelessly to deliver a seamless experience. Everyone gave their best, and it showed.
Special commendation must also go to the NIPOGA Technical Team and the dedicated Coaches of The Federal Polytechnic Offa for their dynamism, tireless commitment, and exceptional hard work. Their sleepless nights, unwavering dedication, and behind-the scenes efforts were instrumental in ensuring the smooth conduct of the games. They played a pivotal role in upholding the integrity of the competition by diligently ensuring that all rules were properly administered and strictly adhered to. Their professionalism and passion truly reflect the spirit of excellence we strive to uphold in our Polytechnic community.
Even in the absence of the traditional zonal preliminaries, which usually precede the games, the 22nd edition accommodated over 35 events with thousands of athletes from Polytechnics nationwide. Yet, not once did it falter under the weight of such magnitude. Instead, it rose triumphantly.
The Federal Polytechnic Offa not only excelled in logistics but also proved itself a formidable contender in the games. *Offa clinched the male football gold medal, secured silver in female football, and emerged third overall on the final medals table.* This performance further validates The Federal Polytechnic Offa’s growing stature as one of Nigeria’s most dynamic and rapidly advancing Polytechnics.
Final medal standings at the closing shows:
1. Federal Polytechnic, Ado-Ekiti – Gold: 29 | Silver: 15 | Bronze: 9
2. Yaba College of Technology – Gold: 14 | Silver: 9 | Bronze: 20
3. Federal Polytechnic, Offa – Gold: 13 | Silver: 15 | Bronze: 26
4. The Polytechnic, Ibadan – Gold: 11 | Silver: 11 | Bronze: 15
5. Gateway Polytechnic, Saapade – Gold: 8 | Silver: 3 | Bronze: 4
The resounding success of the event also hinged on the tireless support of the Polytechnic’s staff and students. Their collective spirit of patriotism, hospitality, and cooperation set the tone for a warm and peaceful atmosphere throughout the games. Despite the size and intensity of the event, there were no incidents of misconduct, a testament to the discipline and decorum displayed by every category of Staff and students.
Not to be overlooked is the remarkable contribution of the institution’s four staff unions: ASUP, SSANIP, NASU, and NOTSUP, all of whom donated trophies to various events, adding colour and prestige to the awards ceremony. Their gesture symbolized a united front in supporting national development through sports.
The Offa community, true to its tradition of hospitality, also rose to the occasion. The town warmly embraced thousands of visitors and participants, further earning its reputation as a gracious and accommodating host. Indeed, as the local saying goes, Offa always has something to offer.
As the baton of hosting passes to Delta State Polytechnic, Ogwashi-Uku, one cannot help but echo the words of an old Igbo proverb: “The lizard that fell from the high iroko tree says it will praise itself if no one else does.” Thankfully, in this case, The Federal Polytechnic Offa is not alone in its celebration as accolades have poured in from all corners for what was a truly extraordinary event.
While future hosts may draw inspiration from this remarkable edition, they will also face a formidable challenge in meeting the high standards set by The Federal Polytechnic Offa. For now, let us all celebrate what has been an unforgettable chapter in the history of NIPOGA.
Subsequent upon all these widespread applause and commendation received from all quarters for FEDPOFFA successful hosting of NIPOGA, *it is my earnest hope that the Polytechnic will build on this remarkable achievement by taking the bold initiative to host the Senior Staff Games (NIPOSSGA).* Beyond showcasing the Institution sustained capacity and readiness, such a move would serve as a fitting platform to honour and engage the senior staff members: dedicated men and women whose steadfast contributions have shaped the growth of Polytechnics across the nation.
With the robust infrastructure and resources already in place, The Federal Polytechnic Offa is uniquely positioned to deliver a memorable and impactful event. By sustaining the momentum of NIPOGA, we can continue to foster unity, excellence, and a deep sense of institutional pride within the Polytechnic community through NIPOSSGA.
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