FEDERATION OF PUBLIC SERVICE GAMES 2025 OPENS IN YOLA WITH RECORD-BREAKING TURNOUT

By Samuel Ganwaja

The 2025 Federation of Public Service Games (FEFSGA), popularly known as the “Fresh Air Games,” officially kicked off on Thursday at the Mahmud Ribadu Square, Yola, amid vibrant displays, colour, and excitement.

This year’s opening ceremony marked a historic milestone, as 84 Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) registered to participate — the highest number recorded in the over 40-year history of the games. The unprecedented turnout reflects renewed enthusiasm, unity, and commitment within the Nigerian public service.

Adamawa State, the host of the event, used the occasion to reaffirm its strong dedication to sports development and youth empowerment. Delivering a keynote address on behalf of Governor Rt. Hon. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, the Deputy Governor, Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta, highlighted the state government’s sustained investments in sports infrastructure, public service welfare, and youth development.

She noted that the administration has upgraded major stadiums across the state and continues to support local sporting clubs as part of deliberate efforts to promote active lifestyles and position Adamawa as a hub for regional and national sporting events.

Governor Fintiri, through his representative, urged athletes to compete with passion, discipline, and integrity, stressing that sportsmanship should remain central throughout the games. He encouraged participants to let their performances reflect the values of dedication, excellence, and patriotism that define the Nigerian public service.

The Governor further described the games as a celebration of the unifying power of sports, emphasizing their role in promoting national unity, physical fitness, mental well-being, social cohesion, and economic growth.

In his remarks, FEFSGA President, Mr. Alaska Aluko, commended the Adamawa State Government for its transformative development agenda. He acknowledged that Governor Fintiri’s 11-Point Agenda, covering urban renewal, rural development, education, digital transformation, security, and agriculture, has significantly reshaped the state.

Mr. Aluko added that the Public Service Games promote a healthier and more energetic workforce, strengthen unity, enhance inter-agency bonding, and foster collaboration across ministries, departments, and agencies nationwide.

A major highlight of the opening ceremony was the colourful ceremonial match past by participating MDAs, with awards presented for outstanding displays. The Ministry of Works clinched the first-place trophy, followed by the Ministry of Education in second place, while the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) secured third place.

The Fresh Air Games 2025 will run throughout the week, featuring a range of sporting activities as public servants from across the federation compete in a spirit of camaraderie, fitness, and friendly rivalry.