Sports
Nasarawa Poly Ready To Host NIPOGA – Rector
Rector, Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, Prof. Shettima Sa’idu on Monday said that the institution was ready to hosts the 19th edition of the Nigerian Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA).
Sa’idu, who made this known to newsmen in Abuja, said that necessary infrastructure and facilities have been put in place ahead of the games.
“We are ready to host our institutions per say, in terms of infrastructure and facilities, we are ready.
“That’s the truth about it and we look forward to hosting a successful event.”
“For a long time the polytechnic sector have contributed a lot to the sporting world, but that much recognition have not been forthcoming to try to identify with ourselves. So, this time around, we are saying we want to reach out.
“There are some polytechnic products that have reached the height of international figures as far as sports is concerned.
“I have asked them to call Kanu Nwankwo and Segun Odegbami that are household names as far as football is concerned, not only in Nigeria but internationally.
“They are products of the Polytechnics; we’ve never showcased such people.”
Sa’idu, who doubles as the President of NIPOGA, revealed that the institution has new concepts and innovations that would be introduced in order to add value to the games.
He said that the institution was also doing a lot in terms of marketing of the games and seeking sponsorship from corporate organisations, individuals as well as the Federal and State governments.
“The marketing aspect, the new concept, the approach of advertising what we do to really attract is coming from formidable organizations like the A3 Foundation which is headed by the former First Lady of Kogi State, Amb. Aishatu Audu-Emeje.
“Ambassadors like John Fashanu, just the likes of them that are all over, household names and international figures are all out to identify with us.
“Federal Polytechnic Nasarawa, we are actually one of those that have the strongest alumni in Nigeria today and we are harnessing on all these to ensure that we have a successful hosting.
“The host community is on board, the state government is supporting us and various individuals and groups are all with us,”
The Bayelsa State government, yesterday, announced that the marathon will be held on Saturday, April 4, 2026.
The inaugural race is owned by the Bayelsa State Government and will be organised by Nilayo Sports Management Limited, a sports management company.
Under the theme “The Reveal,” the race represents a bold unveiling of Bayelsa’s immense human and cultural potential to the international community, inviting the world to witness the resilience, grit, and talent rooted in the heart of the Niger Delta.
According to the organisers, the race will be flagged off at 9:30 a.m., at the Opolo Roundabout, guiding participants through a carefully designed 10-kilometre route that highlights the scenic beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Yenagoa.
The course will culminate at Peace Park Square, where athletes will cross the finish line into a grand celebration of endurance, unity, and community spirit.
To elevate the experience for runners and spectators alike, the finish venue will host a high-energy post-race concert featuring performances from top A-list artistes, blending sport and entertainment in a festival-style atmosphere.
The organisers directed all registered participants to collect their race bibs and kits at the designated Peace Park Square between March 30 and April 3, 2026, from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. daily.
The race, according to them, is currently on track for World Athletics accreditation, underscoring the commitment of both the Bayelsa State Government and Nilayo Sports Management Limited to delivering an event that meets the highest global standards.
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Bukola Olopade, on Friday continued the Commission’s nationwide appreciation tour with a visit to Abeokuta, where outstanding junior athlete, Majekodunmi Afusat Bisola, was presented with a cheque of N3 million.
The presentation forms part of the NSC’s initiative to recognise and reward exceptional junior athletes who distinguished themselves in 2025 and contributed significantly to Nigeria’s medal haul.
Majekodunmi delivered an impressive run of performances on the track. At the last edition of the National Sports Festival, she stormed to gold in the 400m and the 4x400m relay. She replicated the double triumph at the Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) Junior Championship, in Abeokuta, before emerging as one of the standout stars at the African Youth Games in Luanda, Angola.
Speaking during the presentation, Olopade explained that the Commission deemed it necessary to extend financial appreciation to grassroots athletes after elite performers had earlier received grants running into thousands of dollars.
“A few weeks ago, after paying grants to our elite athletes, we agreed tthere was a need to also appreciate these young, budding talents who made Nigeria proud last year,” he said.
He disclosed that of the 376 medals recorded by Nigerian athletes in 2025, more than 200 were won by grassroots talents, underscoring the importance of sustained investment in youth development.
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