NIPOGA 2025: Go for Gold, Make Us Proud, Rector Inspires FEDPA Athletes

The Rector of the Federal Polytechnic, Ayede, Oyo State, Engr. Dr. Taofeeq Adekunle Abdul-Hamid, FNSE, has charged the institution’s athletes participating in the 22nd edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) to go for gold and make the institution proud.

He gave the charge during an interview with campus journalists at the halftime break of the grand opening football match between Federal Polytechnic, Offa, and Federal Polytechnic, Nasarawa. The match ended 3-0 in favor of the hosts, FEDPOFFA.

The Rector emphasized that sports play a vital role in shaping well-rounded students, complementing their academic pursuits. He encouraged the athletes to give their all and represent the institution with dignity and excellence.

Strive to be the best, not just in your games, but as worthy ambassadors of the fastest-growing Federal Polytechnic in Nigeria, he said. The Olympic spirit is about participation, but I urge you”go for gold. Let FEDPA’s name echo across the nation and beyond.

Dr. Abdul-Hamid reminded the students that education is not limited to the four walls of the classroom, and their performance on the field contributes to the overall growth and recognition of the Polytechnic.

In a related development, the Acting Director of Sports, FEDPA, Mallam Bashir Bello, appreciated the visionary leadership of the Rector for ensuring that the athletes were well-prepared and adequately supported for the competition.

He also commended the Rector of the host institution, Federal Polytechnic Offa, Engr. Dr. Kamoru Kadir Oluwatoyin, for successfully hosting the tournament, ensuring effective coordination, hospitality, and maximum security throughout the event.

Speaking on behalf of the team, the Captain of the FEDPA squad, Olajide Peter Olakunle, expressed gratitude to the Rector for his visible commitment to student development through sports. He promised that the team would give their best to make the institution proud.

The grand opening ceremony was attended by top dignitaries including HRM Oba Rasheed Ayotunde Olabomi (Aragbiji of Iragbiji), Senator Yisa Ashiru (representing Kwara South), Hon. Sulaimon Olatunji (Chairman, Offa LG), as well as prominent Offa chiefs, rectors of other polytechnics, sports officials, coaches, fans, and members of the press.