In a bid to foster peace, unity, stability, and overall development in Nigeria, Inspector General of Police (IGP) Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, emphasized the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to leveraging its sports capabilities. The declaration came during the opening ceremony of the 14th Biennial Police Games, Oluyole 2024, held at the Adamasingba Sports Centre, Ibadan, on Saturday, 24th February, 2024.

IGP Egbetokun, alongside the Executive Governor of Oyo State, His Excellency Engr. Seyi Makinde, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, highlighted the historical significance of the event in promoting national cohesion. The IGP underlined the instrumental role of Nigeria Police Sports in producing champions who represent the country on national and international platforms, contributing to the nation’s sporting prowess.

He underscored the positive impact of sports in fostering camaraderie, discipline, and mutual respect among police officers and the public. The competition, featuring officers from various Commands and Formations, serves as a platform for promoting teamwork, physical fitness, and healthy competition within the Force.

The theme of the 14th Biennial Police Games, ‘Competing for Peace, Unity, Stability, and Development of Nigeria,’ reflects the collective determination of the Nigeria Police Force to enhance national cohesion. The IGP emphasized that the event symbolizes the commitment to reinforcing values such as professionalism, integrity, and service to the nation, essential for collective safety and national development.

Expressing gratitude to the Governor and people of Oyo State for their support in hosting the event, IGP Egbetokun extended a warm invitation to the public to join in celebrating the spirit of sportsmanship and camaraderie. He encouraged spectators to support the participating athletes, contributing to the Force’s objective of bringing policing closer to the people through sports.

The Inspector General of Police expressed the Force’s intention to showcase and discover new talents within its sports circle, further contributing to national development. The 14th Biennial Police Games stands as a testament to the commitment of the Nigeria Police Force to utilize sports as a tool for promoting peace, unity, stability, and overall development in the country.