By Chuks Peter, DELTA
Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, will be honoured with the prestigious Special Achievement Sports Award by the Nigeria Pitch Awards.
This announcement was made by Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, in a statement released to the press.
ACP Adejobi noted that the award will be conferred on the IGP in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, today, Saturday, June 8, 2024.
“The Nigeria Pitch Awards, a prestigious platform for recognising hard work, commitment, and excellence among Nigerian footballers, sports officials, and stakeholders, will be conferring the award on the IGP in the serene city of Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, June 8, 2024.
“The Nigeria Pitch Awards, endorsed by the Nigeria Football Federation and the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports since 2012, is the longest-running football awards in Nigerian football history and one of the few audited awards in the country.”
According to ACP Adejobi, “Award winners are determined by votes cast by over one hundred sports editors across the 36 states of Nigeria and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
The collation and auditing of votes are conducted by SIAO Partners, an indigenous accounting and auditing firm.”
ACP Adejobi highlighted that IGP Egbetokun was selected for this year’s Special Achievement in Sports Award due to his efforts in sports development within the Nigeria Police Force and his relentless pursuit of excellence in sports nationwide.
This is evident in his support for the organisation of the 14th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA), successfully held in Ibadan from February 24 to March 22, 2024, where football was introduced as an event at the finals for the first time.
“The success of these games culminated in the outstanding performance of Nigeria Police athletes at the 13th All African Games in Accra, Ghana, from March 8 to 26, 2024, where 17 athletes from the Nigeria Police won medals for the country.
“In addition to these achievements, IGP Egbetokun has set up plans to host the West African Police Games in September 2024, as part of his zeal to foster sportsmanship and unity within the Police across the West African region to enhance collaboration and camaraderie.”
ACP Adejobi further stated, “IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun’s relentless commitment to the development of sports within the Nigeria Police Force and his pursuit of sporting excellence have significantly benefited not only the Force but also the national sports arena.
“His leadership and vision have inspired many, making him a deserving recipient of the Special Achievement in Sports Award.”
The Special Achievement Sports Award recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth of sports in Nigeria, celebrating those whose dedication and efforts have profoundly impacted the nation’s sporting landscape