By Victor Okoye
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) will make history at the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA), Asaba 2026, as it features for the first time as a fully recognised and scoring sport.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the landmark development marks a major breakthrough for combat sports in Nigeria, positioning the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) at the forefront of structured MMA development.
From a demonstration event at the 14th edition, MMA has now evolved into a medal-contending competition under a regulated, safety-driven framework—creating formal pathways for athletes, coaches and officials within the Force.
Chairman of the Nigeria Police Mixed Martial Arts Association and Board member of the Nigeria MMA Federation, CSP Kalu Erem, described the inclusion as a historic and defining moment for the sport’s growth nationwide.
Kalu said the Inspetor-General of Police (I-G) Mr Kayode Egbetokun, had consistently demonstrated commitment to developing MMA within the Force and Nationwide.
“From supporting outstanding Police MMA Athletes like Cpl Juliet Chukwu, Cpl Juliet Ukah and Cpl Bernard Ewah, the I-G has shown visionary leadership in combat sports development,” he said.
According to him,the journey began with the Egbetokun hosting the first I-G Open National MMA Championship in Abuja from Dec.1 to 4 ,2023 at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium.
According to him, this followed with a demonstration event at the 14th BIPOGA and has now evolved into a fully scoring competitive tournament.
“Asaba 2026 marks the first time not just at the Police Games but at any other National Sporting festival in Nigeria’s very rich MMA history that the sport is officially scored amongst different other sporting events,” he said.
Kalu, who is a member of the Nigeria Olympic Technical Commission, noted that the Nigeria Police Force had become a preeminent example of structured sports development in the country.
“The Nigeria Police Force is setting the pace. This initiative reflects global best practices in governance, athlete welfare, and technical certification,” he said.
Kalu, who is also a member of the Nigeria Police Force Sports Planning Committee, said that the I-G’s trailblazing support had created credible opportunities for officers to compete nationally and internationally.
“This is how sustainable sports ecosystems are built—through leadership, regulation, and deliberate investment in people.
“The 15th BIPOGA in Asaba thus stands as a defining moment for Nigerian MMA and institutional sports excellence,” Kalu said.
The Games, with the theme “Beyond the Badge: Excellence in Action” with the slogan “Discipline, Dignity and Dedication,” was declared open by President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Defence, Gen. Christopher Musa (Rtd).
Asaba 2026 began with an opening ceremony on Saturday and is scheduled to conclude on Feb. 21. (NAN)
Edited by Joseph Edeh
