The Mass Communication Department (HND II) students of Federal Polytechnic Offa (FEDPOFFA) have initiated an awareness campaign in preparation for the 22nd Nigerian Polytechnic Games Association (NIPOGA) tournament, set to take place from April 2–12, 2025.
The campaign, led by prominent academic leaders including Dr. David Binta Oloyede, Dean of the newly established School of Communication and Media Studies (SCMS); Dr. Temidayo Olurotimi Bankole, Head of the Mass Communication Department; Dr. Oluwakemi Omoniyi Ogungbamigbe, Chairman of the NIPOGA Media and Publicity Committee; and Dr. Chukwudinma Taiwo Okoji, Child Rights Advocate and SCMS lecturer, saw students engaging the campus community with placards and flyers, urging them to actively participate and support the historic sporting event.
Dr. Salimonu Ishaq Rasheed, Deputy Rector (Administration), representing the Rector, commended the students for their professionalism and dedication. “On behalf of the Rector, who is unavailable, I want to express my gratitude. Mass Communication students, you have truly demonstrated professionalism. Your efforts in promoting this event are impressive, and I wear this vest in solidarity with you,” he remarked.
Dr. Rasheed assured the community that the management is fully committed to ensuring a successful NIPOGA event. He shared that the school’s facilities are almost ready, with the technical team currently in Ilorin wrapping up referee arrangements. He also mentioned that provisions for security and a vibrant marketplace for vendors and attendees are being put in place.
Dr. Oluwakemi Omoniyi Ogungbamigbe, Chairman of the NIPOGA Media and Publicity Committee, outlined plans for extensive media coverage of the event.
“Our goal is to ensure nationwide media coverage of the games. Newsrooms will be established at both the main and mini campuses for real-time updates. Media houses will attend the opening ceremony on April 5, and our in-house reporters will provide continuous coverage throughout the 10-day event,” he said.
Dr. David Oloyede, Dean of SCMS, highlighted the importance of the students’ involvement in the campaign as a practical application of their studies.
“This initiative goes beyond just an assignment; it’s a tangible opportunity for students to contribute to Offa’s global visibility and boost the local economy. The event’s impact will extend far beyond the campus, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses,” he explained.
Dr. Temidayo Olurotimi Bankole, Head of the Mass Communication Department, applauded the leadership of the Polytechnic for securing the hosting rights for the event.
“This is a momentous occasion for FEDPOFFA. Our students are using their communication expertise to ensure widespread participation, and the economic impact of NIPOGA 2025 will benefit both Offa and Kwara State,” he added.
Dr. Chuks Okoji, a project supervisor, emphasized the collaboration between students and the NIPOGA Central Media and Publicity Committee to enhance communication efforts. “Our students are playing a key role in this campaign and will also contribute to the opening and closing ceremonies,” he noted.
Earlier in March, Engr. Dr. Kadiri Kamoru, Rector of FEDPOFFA and President of the NIPOGA Caretaker Committee, reiterated the institution’s readiness to host over 4,000 athletes from more than 50 polytechnics nationwide.
At the Pre-NIPOGA Press Conference, he spoke about the Polytechnic’s state-of-the-art sporting facilities and the anticipated social and economic benefits the tournament will bring.
FEDPOFFA was officially confirmed as the host institution for NIPOGA 2025 on February 27, 2024, through a letter signed by Mas’ud Elelu, Secretary-General of the Council of Heads of Polytechnics and Colleges of Technology in Nigeria.
With preparations well underway and the awareness campaign in full swing, the entire FEDPOFFA community is gearing up to host a memorable and impactful NIPOGA tournament that will leave a lasting legacy.
