President of the Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA), Comrade Aloku Amaebi yesterday said about 10,000 contingents from across the country are expected to participate in the 37th edition of FEPSGA which holds in Lokoja from Dec 5 to 15.
Amaebi, who disclosed this in Lokoja while speaking to journalists on the sidelines of a pre-games seminar, assured that the Kogi State Government in collaboration with the office of the Head of Civil Service of Federation had put all necessary arrangements in place for a hitchfree sporting events.
“This is the first time Kogi State is hosting this tournament. Governor Yahaya Bello has assured (FEPSGA) that all the facilities will be in good state and adequate security will also be provided. We are here in Lokoja and it is central in our mind that our stay in this place will be fruitful”, he said.
He noted that, the contingents comprising civil servants from over 70 MDAs and extra ministerial departments from across the 36 states and FCT will be participating in 16 competitive games.
Amaebi however said professional are not allowed in the competition, adding that professional are only allowed at the annual National Sports Festivals.
He said the essence of games was to ensure that civil servants are physically fit and mentally healthy to face their challenges in office.
According to him, the sporting event would boost businesses and the economy of the state through patronage by the participants.
He commended the Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello for accepting to host the sporting and providing the needed supports to ensure its success.