The Nigeria Police Force has officially flagged off the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA 2026) at the Stephen Keshi Stadium in Asaba, Delta State, underscoring its dedication to physical fitness, teamwork, professionalism, and national cohesion as essential pillars of effective policing.
The opening ceremony drew an impressive lineup of dignitaries, including President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, represented by the Honourable Minister of Defence, General Christopher Gwabin Musa (Rtd); Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Orohwedor Oborevwori, Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Emomotimi Guwor; several former Inspectors-General of Police; 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, Elizabeth Egbetokun.
Governor Oborevwori praised the Nigeria Police Force for its unwavering commitment to safeguarding lives and property, noting that the sacrifices of officers continue to bolster peace, stability, and public trust. Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, in his address, welcomed guests and athletes, describing the Games as more than a sporting tradition.
He emphasised their role as a strategic platform for enhancing operational readiness, resilience, teamwork, and character development. He highlighted the continuity of the Games from previous editions, including Ibadan 2024, and charged athletes to compete with integrity and professionalism.
Since its inception as an athletics championship in the 1940s and its transition to a biennial event from Bauchi ’86, BIPOGA has produced world-class athletes who brought glory to Nigeria. Among them are Olympic gold medalist DCP Chioma Ajunwa-Opara (Rtd), the late ACP Sam Igun, SP Samuel Peters, SP Loveth-Patra Ekufu, and DSP Kikelomo Ajayi, who excelled at international competitions, including the Olympics, Commonwealth Games, and World Championships.
The 2026 edition features a record 37 sporting events across disciplines such as athletics, football, boxing, wrestling, swimming, taekwondo, weightlifting, volleyball, shooting sports, cycling, and mixed martial arts. The Force reiterated its commitment to leveraging sports as a tool for officer wellness, operational preparedness, and professional excellence.
