Makinde Declares Open 21st NBTE/NIPOSSGA GAMES in Ibadan
Oyo state governor, Engr Seyi Makinde has harped on the importance of sporting activities, saying it fosters the spirit of oneness and national cohesion among participants.
The governor, who was represented by the commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Salihu Adelabu, disclosed this at the opening ceremony of the 21st Edition of NIBTE/NIPOSSGA Games, held at the Polytechnic, Ibadan North Campus Stadium.
He explained that sport as an activity unites more than anything else; pointing out that the place of sports in the lives of humans cannot be over-emphasized.
He expressed delight that many Polytechnics in Nigeria are participating in this year’s NBTE/NIPOSSGA Games, saying that the state government has provided adequately for all contingents.
He therefore, appealed to participants to use the opportunity provided by the Games to relax and enjoy the habitable environment created for them by Oyo state government.
He urged all participants to be courteous and orderly throughout the games, and prayed for their safe return to their various destinations.
In his remarks, NIPOSSGA National President, Mr. Frederick Yamala, explained that NBTE/NIPOSSGA Games is an instrument for cross-fertilization of ideas, intercultural engagement, physical and mental stability among the senior staff members of the Polytechnics in Nigeria.
He said that the games create an enabling environment for staffers at Nigeria Polytechnics, Colleges of Technology and Monotechnics to meet and share ideas, rub minds as well as exchange views of common interest.
He appreciated the host institution, the Polytechnic of Ibadan, for creating an enabling environment for them.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Rector, the Polytechnic, Ibadan, Prof. Kazeem Adeniyi, welcomed all staff of Nigeria Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology to the Polytechnic, Ibadan.
He explained that over the years the games had provided an avenue for various institutions to fraternize, relax and unwind after years of academic and administrative stress.
He therefore wished all the participants a joyful stay in the pacesetter state and journey mercies back to their various destinations.
The Games featuring multiple sporting activities, attracted participants from all Nigeria Polytechnics, Monotechnics, Colleges of Technology and other Stakeholders in at least 30 participating institutions.
The opening Football Match between Federal Polytechnic, Offa and the Ibadan Polytechnic, ended 2-0, in favour of the Federal Polytechnic, Offa.
