By Victor Okoye
The 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) has recorded a major milestone, as Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) makes its debut at the National Sports Festival (NSF).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inclusion follows an impressive outing at the 15th BIPOGA Games, where athletes from 17 Police Zonal Commands and the Force Headquarters competed in a strictly amateur MMA event.
The Games, held in Asaba, Delta, from Feb. 14 to Feb. 21, marked a turning point in the recognition of MMA in Nigeria.
CSP Kalu Chijioke, a board member of the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), attributed the development to the efforts of the Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies in strengthening MMA governance nationwide.
Chijioke told NAN on Monday that the sport’s rise from obscurity reflects deliberate institutional support and commitment by the Nigeria Police Force.
“The attention, visibility and momentum MMA enjoys in Nigeria stem from the influence and credibility of the Nigeria Police Force.
“After being a demonstration sport at the 14th BIPOGA edition in Ibadan, Oyo State, MMA became a fully recognised, medal-scoring sport for the first time at the 15th edition in Asaba.
“The impact of the last Police Games on the development of the sport in Nigeria is significant.
“Our goal was to transform MMA from a fringe activity into a structured, regulated and globally competitive sport,” he said.
NAN reports that the Nigeria Police Force boosted MMA development by establishing its MMA Association, chaired by Chijioke, and formally sanctioning the sport after its demonstration at the 14th BIPOGA in Ibadan.
Chijioke said the Force also funded national championships, developed globally competitive athletes and secured Inspector-General of Police-level endorsement to legitimise MMA.
“Institutional backing has been critical in building credibility, attracting talent and positioning Nigeria on the global MMA stage.
“The former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, described the initiative as ‘visionary leadership in combat sports development.’
“Police athletes Juliet Chukwu, Juliet Ukah and Ewah Bernard have gained global visibility, bringing pride to the Nigeria Police Force and the country.
“These athletes embody our vision, demonstrating discipline, excellence and national pride through MMA,” he said.
Chijioke added that Nigerians should expect more outstanding performances from the present Nigeria Police Force management team under the leadership of Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Disu.(NAN)
Edited by Tosin Kolade
