43rd FEPSGA: Athletes laud security, peaceful games in Rivers

Athletes and officials at the ongoing 43rd edition of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) in Rivers State have applauded the peaceful conduct of the games and top security in the state.

At the University of Port Harcourt, where both male and female athletes competed in the 100m and 400m races, as well as the relay race, the atmosphere was engaging and entertaining.

Some of the athletes, in an interview, said that contrary to the scary news they had heard about the state, they noted that Rivers State is peaceful and hospitable.
Governor of Rivers State, Siminalayi Fubara, had assured of a safe and conducive environment in the state for all.

The games, which are being hosted in the state, have drawn over 10,000 participants from the sports teams of Federal Ministries, Departments, and Agencies across the country.

Governor Fubara, at the official opening ceremony of the games held in Port Harcourt, assured the participants of the state’s commitment to providing a secure and conducive environment for the success of the games.
Represented by his Deputy, Prof. Ngozi Odu, Fubara said the games bring together contestants from across Nigeria to compete in the spirit of unity and camaraderie, describing Rivers 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.”

In his address, the President of the Federation of Public Service Games, Mr Amaebi Aloku, expressed gratitude to the Rivers State governor and the people of the state for their generosity and enthusiasm in hosting the event.

He stressed the significance of the games in fostering national unity and healthy relationships among public servants, noting that Rivers State last hosted the event in 2014 during the tenure of former Governor, Dr. Peter Odili.

Also speaking, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HoSF), Mrs. Didi 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 of the Federal Ministry of Interior, Dr Magdalene Ajani, urged all participants to exhibit the spirit of sportsmanship as the competition unfolds.

To the participants, she said: “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 relationships we build, the networks we foster, and the shared pride we take in serving our nation.

“Whether you leave 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 define us as public servants and as a nation.”