The Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (HCSF), Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, has restated the significant role of sports in national development which underscores the government’s invaluable commitment to the welfare and well-being of its workforce.
Mrs Didi Walson-Jack disclosed this at the opening ceremony of the 43rd edition of the Federal Public Service Games (FEPSGA), in Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, themed “Simplified Rivers 2024”.
The HCSF, who was represented at the event by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr. Magdalene Ajani, described sports as an embodiment of commitment to excellence, resilience, and service to the nation. She added that the sporting fiesta serves as a powerful platform where individuals and teams strive to achieve greatness through discipline, determination, and a relentless pursuit of their goals.
She noted that, through sports, athletes exemplify excellence by pushing the boundaries of human potential and setting benchmarks that inspire others, adding that, their resilience shines in the face of challenges, whether overcoming injuries or losses, demonstrating the value of perseverance and a winning mindset.
Mrs Walson-Jack also observed that beyond individual achievements, sports serves as a unifying force, fostering national pride and solidarity, as athletes become ambassadors of their nations, promoting unity, and showcasing the values of hard work and team spirit.
The HSCF admonished delegates to approach the games with enthusiasm, fairness, and a spirit of integrity and brotherhood.
Mrs Walson- Jack thanked His Excellency, the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, for his warm hospitality and unwavering support in hosting the games.
In her words, “Your dedication to promoting sports and fostering unity is commendable, and we are deeply appreciative of your efforts in making this gathering a reality”. She added.
She also thanked FEPSGA Executives for their dedication to sustaining the remarkable tradition of the sporting fiesta for over four decades and for their visionary leadership in creating opportunities for public servants to connect, collaborate, and celebrate through the unifying power of sport
The Governor who was represented at the occasion by the Deputy Governor of the State, Professor Ngozi Odu, commended the HCSF for the opportunity to host the 43rd edition of the Annual Federal Public Service Games.
He acknowledged the rich history and significance of the games in promoting unity, friendship, and excellence among public servants across Nigeria, noting that the Public Service games fosters socio-cultural integration, advances national cohesion and showcases the talents of public servants
He urged all participants to embrace the true spirit of sportsmanship which goes beyond winning medals, stating that it is about building bridges of friendship, fostering the essence of community and celebrating diversity.
In his welcome address, the Head of Service, Rivers State, Dr George Nwaeke, mni, stated that the games will allow participants to build bridges and enjoy the hospitality of Rivers State.
In a goodwill message, Overseeing Director, Service Welfare Office, Dr Comfort Adeosun urged all athletes and participants to engage in the games with integrity, fairness, and sportsmanship, stating that beyond the competition, the games offer an opportunity to build lasting relationships, embrace values of resilience and teamwork, and reaffirm their dedication to the service.
The National President of FEPSGA, Mr. Aloku Amaebi, in his opening remarks disclosed that FEPSGA was established in 1981 to foster unity and healthy rivalry in sports amongst Federal Public Servants. He stated that the annual event also promotes commerce, hospitality, industry, and tourism in the host state.
He thanked the government and the good people of Rivers State for the generous hospitality and warm reception accorded to the contingents. He also praised the state for hosting the games for the second time in forty-three years, stating that the state government values the place of sports and the advantages it brings.
Amaebi also commended the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation for her invaluable support to the Federation. He also admonished participants to shun sharp practices and exhibit discipline, which is the hallmark of the Civil Service.
The opening ceremony featured over 10,000 participants drawn from sixty-eight(68) affiliated Ministries, Departments and Agencies- MDAs clubs across the country.
