By Victor Okoye
Abuja, April 20, 2026 (NAN) The 15th BIPOGA has recorded its first national sports impact as Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) debuts at the National Sports Festival (NSF).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the inclusion follows an impressive outing at the 15th BIPOGA Games held in Asaba Delta State from the 14th to 21st of February 2026 with athletes from 17 Police Zonal Command and FHQ participating in the strictly Amateur Mixed Martial Arts event, marking a turning point for Mixed Marital Arts (MMA) recognition.
CSP Kalu Chijioke Erem anipr,mipra,board member of the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), attributed the development to Nigeria Police Force and other security agencies efforts in strengthening MMA governance nationwide.
Chijioke told NAN on Monday that MMA’s rise from obscurity reflects deliberate institutional support and commitment by the Nigeria Police Force.
“The attention,visibility, and momentum MMA enjoys in Nigeria stem from the influence and credibility of the Nigeria Police Force.
“After being a demo sport at the 14th BIPOGA edition held in Ibadan,Oyo State, MMA became a fully recognized, scoring sport for the first time in the history of the sport in the 15th edition in Asaba, 2026.
“The impact of the last Police Games on the development of the sport in Nigeria is significant.
“Our goal was to transform MMA from a fringe activity into a structured, regulated, and globally competitive sport,” he said.
NAN reports that the Nigeria Police Force boosted MMA growth by establishing its MMA Association, chaired by Chijioke, and sanctioning the sport after a demonstration in Ibadan 14th BIPOGA.
Chijioke said that the Force also funded national championships, produced globally competitive athletes, and secured Inspector- General of Police Level endorsement to legitimize MMA.
15th BIPOGA Created a Pathway for Police Athletes,Coaches and Officiating Officials under a regulated framework.
“Institutional backing has been critical in building credibility, attracting talent, and positioning Nigeria on the global MMA stage.
“The former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun described the initiative as ‘visionary leadership in combat sports development.’
“Police athletes Juliet Chukwu, Juliet Ukah, and Ewah Bernard have gained global visibility, bringing pride to the Nigeria Police Force and Nigeria.
“These athletes embody our vision, demonstrating discipline, excellence, and national pride through MMA,” he said.
More Police Female Athletes in the Pipeline.
Chijioke added that Nigerians should expect more exceptional outings from the Present NPF management team under the leadership of one of the most decorated Sports Inspector General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, psc.(NAN)
