Authorities of the Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin has said that it has the strength to host the 20th edition of the Nigeria Polytechnic Games (NIPOGA) set to commence on February 8, 2020, in the institution.
Speaking with journalists in Ilorin on Wednesday, rector of the polytechnic, Engineer Dr Abdul Mohammed, said the games would feature about 3,000 participants from 51 polytechnics and monotechnics, including 1,000 officials.
He also said the participants are expected to compete for 12 games such as volleyball, table tennis, Scrabble, hockey, athletics, handball, tennis, basketball, chess, badminton, taekwondo and football.
The rector, who said that about N190 million budget projection was made for the games, added that facilities for the games have been put in shape.
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He also said that the event would “foster unity among participating institutions, encourage discipline and enhance physical fitness, while it will also remove cultural, tribal, religious, racial barriers and other parochial differences etc”.
The host polytechnic, which said that its contingents are prepared to win Gold in all the games, added that necessary support was being given to make them accomplish the feat.
On the security of lives and property, the rector, who called on community leaders present at the media briefing, among other stakeholders to own the event, said security should not be taken as a concern of security agents alone.
The rector also urged all participating sportsmen to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship in order to solidify existing peace and harmony which the state is known for.
The Kwara State Polytechnic last hosted the games in 1981, winning four gold, three silver and six bronze medals.
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