The Nigeria Police Force has officially commenced the 15th edition of the Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA 2026) in Asaba, Delta State, reaffirmed its commitment to physical fitness, unity, professionalism, and operational readiness as key pillars of effective policing.
The opening ceremony, held at the Stephen Keshi Stadium, attracted senior government officials, security chiefs, and sports stakeholders from across the country, marking the beginning of what organisers described as a celebration of discipline, teamwork, and institutional pride.
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, represented by the Minister of Defence, Christopher Gwabin Musa, attended the event alongside the Governor of Delta State, Sheriff Francis Oborevwori; Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, Emomotimi Guwor; former Inspectors-General of Police including Suleiman Abba, Ogbonnaya Onovo, Mohammed D. Abubakar, and Mike Mbama Okiro, as well as heads of security agencies and senior government officials.
In his remarks, Governor Oborevwori commended the Nigeria Police Force for its sustained efforts in safeguarding lives and property, noted that the dedication and sacrifices of officers continue to strengthen peace, stability, and public confidence across the country.
Speaking at the ceremony, the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, welcomed guests and participating athletes, describing the Games as more than a sporting tradition. He said BIPOGA serves as a strategic platform for enhancing operational readiness, resilience, teamwork, and character development among personnel.
The IGP noted that the Games, which began as an athletics championship in the 1940s before becoming a biennial event from Bauchi ’86, have consistently promoted talent discovery, unity, and professional excellence within the Force. He urged athletes to compete with integrity while upholding the highest standards of discipline and sportsmanship.
Over the years, the competition has produced internationally celebrated athletes, including Olympic gold medallist Chioma Ajunwa-Opara and former heavyweight boxing champion Samuel Peters, among others who represented Nigeria at the Olympic Games, Commonwealth Games, and global championships.
The 2026 edition features a record 37 sporting events across multiple disciplines, including athletics, football, boxing, wrestling, swimming, taekwondo, weightlifting, volleyball, shooting sports, cycling, and mixed martial arts.
The Nigeria Police Force reiterated that it will continue to leverage sports as a tool for promoting officer wellness, strengthening esprit de corps, and improving operational preparedness in line with modern policing standards.
