NIPOGA 2025: Federal Polytechnic Ayede Rector Highlights Key Contributions of Education Minister, Host, and Stakeholders

The Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Dr. Taofeek Adekunle AbdulHameed, has commended the Honourable Minister of Education, Dr. Morufu Olatunji Alausa for his unwavering support for education and youth development under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking at the grand finale of the Nigerian Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) 2025, hosted by the Federal Polytechnic Offa, Federal Poly Ayede Rector, Dr. AbdulHameed highlighted the critical role of sports in national development and in shaping disciplined, healthy, and focused students.

He noted that the active involvement of the Ministry of Education in supporting inter-institutional sporting competitions like NIPOGA reflects a broader commitment to holistic education. According to him, Education is not only about academic excellence. Sports help to instill values such as teamwork, perseverance, leadership, and respect are all essential for building well-rounded individuals.

Dr. AbdulHameed praised the Rector of the host institution, Engr. Dr. Oluwatoyin Kadiri Kamoru, for his exceptional leadership and the successful hosting of the event, which drew participants from polytechnics and colleges of technology across Nigeria. He also expressed deep appreciation to the Offa community for their warm hospitality, friendliness, and strong support in ensuring the safety and comfort of all guests and athletes. The people of Offa have shown the true spirit of community and hospitality. Their support for this event made a big difference, he stated.

He further commended the organizers of NIPOGA 2025 for their thorough planning and seamless coordination, which led to the smooth execution of the multi-day sporting festival. He acknowledged the hard work behind the scenes, noting that the scale and success of the event was a result of collective dedication.

Dr. AbdulHameed used the opportunity to celebrate the students of Federal Polytechnic Ayede who participated in the games. He expressed pride in their performance, commitment, and sportsmanship, encouraging them to continue to see sports as an essential aspect of learning and self-development. Our students made us proud. I want to remind them and all others that the joy of the Olympics lies in participation. In sports, just showing up and giving your best is already a win.

He explained that his presence at both the opening and closing ceremonies of the games was a reflection of his commitment to the total development of the students under his care. Many observers and stakeholders praised his proactive and student-centered leadership style, which continues to gain recognition within and beyond the polytechnic system.

One of the highlights of the closing day was the Men’s Football Final between Federal Polytechnic Nekede and host institution, Federal Polytechnic Offa. The match was intense, with both sides showing technical skill and determination. A foul committed inside the penalty area in the first half led to a spot kick, which Offa Polytechnic successfully converted. The 1-0 lead was maintained until full time, handing the host institution a hard-fought victory.

In the Women’s Football category, Yaba College of Technology emerged as champions, securing first place. Federal Polytechnic Offa finished in second position, while Ogun State Polytechnic, Sapade, took the third spot. All teams were praised for their skill, teamwork, and discipline.

Several dignitaries were present at the event to witness the grand finale. Among them were Dr. Lasisi Taiwo Abideen, Rector of The Polytechnic Ibadan; Mr. Denis Yakubu, who represented the Acting Rector of IMAP Lafia, Nasarawa State; Ahl. I. A. Lawal, Deputy Rector Academics, representing the Rector of Federal Polytechnic Ede; and Engr. Dr. Abdul Mohammed, Rector of Federal Polytechnic, Kwara State. Others included Prof. Bayo Lawal, a well-known stakeholder and contributor to the development of NIPOGA; and Prof. Emmanuel Uphopu-Biri, Rector of Delta State Polytechnic, Otefe-Oghara, who was represented by the Chairman of the institution’s Sports Advisory Committee. The NANS Chairman for Oyo State, Comrade Festus Oyewumi, also attended, showing student solidarity with the national event.

The Olofa of Offa was ably represented at the occasion, adding a royal presence to the colorful and eventful closing ceremony. Also in attendance were the Chairman and esteemed members of the Governing Council of the Federal Polytechnic Offa, who played critical roles in supporting and supervising the successful hosting of the games.

As NIPOGA 2025 came to a close, Dr. AbdulHameed reaffirmed the commitment of Federal Polytechnic Ayede to continue participating actively in national sporting events and to promote sports as a key part of student development. He described NIPOGA as a powerful platform for unity, talent discovery, and national pride, urging institutions to keep the spirit alive in years to come.