Fifty-nine Nigerian polytechnics are participating in the Senior Staff Games Association, which began on Sunday in Auchi, Edo.

Auchi Polytechnic is hosting the 22nd edition of the games.

The general overseer of Omega Fire Ministry, Johnson Suleman, lit the torch to officially kick off the event.

Rector of the host polytechnic, Salisu Umar, in his opening remarks, said that the game helped to provide unity, sportsmanship and camaraderie among senior staff of Polytechnics across Nigeria.

Mr Umar said that the game provided a platform for staff to interact, share experiences and showcase their talents beyond academics.

“Sporting activities in the polytechnic sector are not a nascent practice. The common purpose of any sports competition, including NIPOSSGA, is to primarily foster unity and peaceful co-existence. Hosting this event,  our senior staff will adequately participate, which is an opportunity to acquire a rewarding mental development, a booster of cognitive function and to promote self-reliance and technological development,” he said.

He commended the organising committee for their efforts in making the event possible. The rector welcomed participants to the institution and wished them a successful and enjoyable game.

“May the best team win, and may this event strengthen bonds among polytechnic staff and foster a sense of community.

“I want to thank all contingents from 59 institutions for honouring us with their presence and also having confidence in our hospitality, which we are never tired of providing.

“I now have the honour and privilege to officially declare open the 22nd NIPOSSGA, and I wish you all a memorable experience in the Auchi Polytechnic community,” Mr Umar said.

The sporting events will be held from December 6 to 14, featuring 10 games, including football, volleyball, lawn tennis, and badminton.

Others are table tennis, chess, scramble, monopoly, whot, ludo, draughts, dart, Ayo and tug-of-war.

The opening football match between the host institution and the Federal Polytechnic Idah, Kogi ended three goals to nil.

(NAN)