PORT HARCOURT – Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has welcomed 10,000 athletes and officials drawn from the sports teams of Federal Ministries Departments and Agencies across the country.
Governor Fubara also officially declared the 43rd edition of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) open officially in an elaborate ceremony at the Sharks stadium, Alfred Diette Spiff Sports Complex, Moscow road, Port Harcourt on Sunday.
Gov. Fubara, who was ably represented by his Deputy, Her Excellency, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, presiding over the colorful event, assuring the participants of the State’s commitment to providing a secure and conducive environment for the success of the games.
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Gov. Fubara said the games engenders an opportunity for contestants across Nigeria to compete in the spirit of unity and camaraderie, describing the state as a land of peace, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage.
He said, “It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the 43rd edition of the Public Service Games codenamed Simplified Rivers Games 2024 here in Port Harcourt.
“Sports has the power to change the world, it has the power to unite the people in a way that nothing else does. Today we gather to celebrate the power of sports to unite, inspire and transform us.
“As you compete in the various events, I urge you to remember that the true spirit of FEPSGA goes beyond winning medals. It is about building bridges of friendship, fostering a sense of community and celebrating our diversity.
“So I encourage you to give your very best to support one another and to embody the values of fairplay, sportsmanship and excellence.”
In his address, the President of the Federation of Public Service Games, Mr Amaebi Aloku, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State for their generosity and enthusiasm in hosting the event.
He emphasised the significance of the games in fostering national unity and healthy relationships among public servants which Rivers State hosted last in 2014 during the tenure of former Governor, Sir Dr. Peter Odili.
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Also speaking, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, hailed the Rivers State government for hosting the event, thanking the state governor for the warm hospitality.
Walson-Jack, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, urged all participants to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship as the competition unfolds.
“I thank the governor of Rivers Sir Siminalayi Fubara for his warm hospitality and determination to host this games. Your dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity is commendable and we are deeply appreciative of your effort in making this gathering a reality.
“Organising an event of this scale requires a lot of dedication, foresight with an exceptional teamwork, which you have deliberately handled and given us a beautiful event as this. Your hard work has created an environment where participants can strive and we are truly grateful for that.
“My appreciation to the FEPSGA EXCO and the director overseeing the service welfare organisations of the civil service for your steadfast dedication in sustaining this remarkable tradition for over four decades.
“To all participants, I urge you to approach this game with enthusiasm, fairness and a spirit of integrity and brotherhood. While competing is important, the true essence of this game lies in the relationship we build, the network we foster and the shared pride we take in serving our nation.
“Whether you live with a medal or not, your participation reflects the dedication and passion that makes public service truly extraordinary. As we gather here in Port Harcourt under the theme, Simplified Rivers Games 2024, let this event be a reminder of the unity and strength that defines us as public servants and as a nation.”
On his part, the Rivers State Head of Service who doubles as the Chairman Local Organising Committee of FEPSGA 2024, Dr. George Nweke, reaffirmed the State’s readiness to host the games.
Dr. Nweke highlighted that the event symbolises unity, love, and sportsmanship and values deeply cherished in Rivers State.
The opening ceremony featured several memorable moments, including the lighting of the games torch by Her Excellency, Prof. Ngozi Nma Odu, symbolising the commencement of the competition.
A vibrant march-past by the contestants also drew cheers from the crowd, with trophies awarded to the first, second, and third-place winners in the parade.
