The Rivers State Government is gearing up to host the 43rd Annual Public Service Games, dubbed the “Simplified Rivers Games 2024,” which will bring together athletes from across Nigeria.
Scheduled to take place from November 27 to December 5, 2024, the event will unfold at five key locations in Port Harcourt, the state capital, and Obio/Akpor Local Government Area.
The PUNCH reported that the announcement was made by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Tammy Danagogo, who addressed the media from his office in Port Harcourt, flanked by Aloku Amaebi, President of the Federation of Public Service Games and Dr. George Nwake, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and the State Head of Service.
Dr. Danagogo emphasized that Governor Siminalayi Fubara had approved the games, underscoring the administration’s commitment to hosting a memorable and successful event.
“No doubt the state is ready to host the Public Service Games. His Excellency has granted his approval for these games to be held in Rivers State, and by the grace of God, we are prepared to host them,” Danagogo stated.
He also relayed Governor Fubara’s gratitude towards both FEPSGA and the state’s civil servants for using the event to promote sports and camaraderie.
Danagogo highlighted the main venues prepared for the games: the Alfred Diette-Spiff Civic Centre, Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium, Port Harcourt Club, and Yakubu Gowon Stadium.
These venues, located in Port Harcourt and Obio/Akpor, will accommodate a range of sporting events, from ball games to table games.
The SSG emphasized that the games would benefit the state in multiple ways, from fostering team spirit among civil servants to boosting local commerce and hospitality industries.
“It’s a win-win for us as a state,” he explained. “It is a win for everybody participating in the games, and His Excellency, being one of you as he once was (a civil servant), knows the benefits that can be derived from these games for the civil servants, Rivers State, and, of course, Nigeria as a whole.”
Danagogo further assured all participants of the state’s renowned hospitality and a safe experience throughout their stay.
The FEPSGA President, Aloku Amaebi, described the Public Service Games as one of Nigeria’s prominent national sporting events, lauding Rivers State for once again embracing the opportunity to host.
Reflecting on the state’s previous hosting during Dr. Peter Odili’s administration, Amaebi noted, “We expect over 10,000 athletes, officials, and dignitaries to participate in the 43rd Annual Public Service Games, with around 16 games being contested, including all the ball events.”
The games, spanning across football, volleyball, tennis, table tennis, badminton, chess, and scrabble, are designed for both men and women, with additional para events introduced to encourage the participation of persons with disabilities.
Amaebi further remarked on the significance of the games for the civil service, highlighting that, historically, only services like the military and paramilitary had the opportunity to compete, while core civil servants were left out.
With these games, however, talented civil servants will have a chance to showcase their athletic skills, with the possibility of being scouted for further sporting development both within Nigeria and on the global stage.
Adding his own insights, the LOC Chairman, Dr. George Nwaeke, reiterated that the state is fully prepared, with final touches being made at all the designated centers.
He spoke to the broader benefits of the games, noting that they will not only encourage health and productivity among civil servants but also spur economic activity in the region.
From creating informal employment to facilitating networking among participants, Nwaeke emphasized that the event aligns with Governor Fubara’s dedication to supporting national development.
The Rivers State Government’s efforts to stage these games are a testament to its commitment to promoting sports, community, and economic vibrancy in the region.
With venues ready and plans in place, the Simplified Rivers Games 2024 promises to be a landmark event, strengthening both local and national bonds through the spirit of friendly competition.
