FIRS Bags Trophy as Public Service Games Officially Opens

The 43rd edition of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) was officially declared open on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at the Sharks Stadium in Rivers State.

Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara was represented by his Deputy, Ngozi Odu, at the opening ceremony. In her welcome address, Ngozi Odu described Rivers State as a land of peace, hospitality, and rich cultural heritage, assuring participants of the State’s commitment to providing a secure environment for the games.

The opening ceremony saw athletes in full cheer as they eagerly awaited the start of the event. Dignitaries and spectators trooped in, and the event began with the singing of the National Anthem and the Federal Civil Service Anthem. The singing of the latter sent shivers through the stadium as the athletes sang with passion and poise.

The event featured several feel-good and memorable moments, one of which was the dance presentation by Abara dance group showcasing the rich culture of the Bonny Kingdom. Another moment of incredible significance was the lighting of the games torch by Deputy Governor of Rivers State, Ngozi Odu, signaling the proper commencement of the competition.

Asides all the fun and camaraderie, there were prizes to be won as various ministries paraded the field in their numbers for the march-past. With three places up for grabs on the podium, the Ministry of Agriculture came in third with 150 points. The Ministry of Works were runners-up with 186 points, just nine points shy of a first-place finish. The Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS), who had the largest contingents in the parade, stunned in their red and white track suits, earning 195 points to secure victory.

George Nweke, the Rivers State Head of Service who doubles as the Chairman Local Organizing Committee FEPSGA 2024, reaffirmed the State’s readiness to host the games. He highlighted that the event symbolizes unity, love, and sportsmanship and values deeply cherished in Rivers State.

The President of the Federation of Public Service Games, Amaebi Aloku, expressed gratitude to Governor Fubara and the people of Rivers State for hosting the event, highlighting its significance in fostering national unity and healthy relationships among public servants. Rivers State previously hosted the games in 2014 during the tenure of former Governor Sir Dr. Peter Odili.