The 15th Biennial Police Games 2026 have commenced in Asaba, Delta State with over six thousand athletes competing in thirty seven sporting events.
Declaring the games open, President Bola Tinubu ,reaffirmed his administration unwavering commitment to strengthening the nation’s security architecture and ensuring that security institutions are properly equipped and motivated and prepared to meet present and future challenges.
President Tinubu represented by the Minister of Defence, General Christopher Musa, retired, commended the Inspector General of Police for sustaining Police Games.
He described sports as a strategic instrument for strengthening cohesion, eninforcing stability and enhancing institutional readiness.
The President who gave an assurance that his administration would continue to support a more professional, displined and resilient driven Nigeria Police Force that contributes to National security, unity and progress of the country, appreciated all those who had sacrificed their lives for the safety and security of Nigeria .
President Tinubu urged athletes to compete with honour and sportsmanship, saying; “let fairness, discipline and mutual respect guide your conduct on and off the field. This is not a do-or-die affair.”
Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori ,
assured the organisers of the 15 Biennial Police Games and all the participants a memorable sports fiesta.
The Governor said Delta has remained peaceful with the efforts and cooperation of all security agencies in the country , saying there is no vandalism of oil installations.
He reminded athletes that the Games celebrate strength, discipline, teamwork and excellence, adding that “not everyone will return home with a medal, but no one who gives their best is a loser”.
Oborevwori recalled the Force’s legacy of producing world-class athletes, including Chioma Ajunwa, Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medallist, and challenged participants to break new records and lift Nigeria’s sporting profile.
The convener and Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun acknowledged the support of President Bola Tinubu, emphasizing that his goodwill and support underscored the importance of the event and collective commitment to unity , service, excellence and development.
He said the values that define great sports are the same values that define great policing, which he highlighted to include courage under pressure, respect for rules integrity in competition and composure in the face of challenges
IGP Egbetokun who said the 15th Biennial Police Games reflected the continuity of a proud and growing tradition, noted that the 14th edition of the police games that held in Ibadan in 2024 , reaffirmed the games as a national platform for institutional pride, talent discovery, unity across commands and formation .
Egbetokun stated further, ”The Biennial Police Games competition is a critical pillar for strengthening professionalism, unity and operational readiness within the Nigeria Police Force.
”The Games go beyond sports. Policing is not only about enforcement, but about endurance, agility, teamwork, resilience and strength of character.”
Highlights of the opening ceremony included march past by contingents from seventeen police zonal commands and the Force headquarters,comprising the thirty six states and the FCT.
The theme of the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) Asaba 2026 is ”Beyond the Badge: Excellence in Action.
