MMA Debuts at National Sports Festival After Breakthrough at 15th BIPOGA

Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) has officially debuted at the National Sports Festival (NSF), following its breakthrough performance at the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA).

The inclusion of MMA in the NSF comes after a successful outing at the 15th BIPOGA Games held in Asaba, Delta State, from February 14 to 21, 2026, marking a significant milestone in the sport’s development in Nigeria.

CSP Kalu Chijioke Erem, a board member of the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation (NMMAF), attributed the development to the sustained efforts of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and other security agencies in strengthening the governance and structure of MMA nationwide.

Chijioke told reporters that the sport’s rise from relative obscurity reflects deliberate institutional support and commitment by the NPF.

“The attention, visibility, and momentum MMA enjoys in Nigeria stem from the influence and credibility of the Nigeria Police Force.

“After being introduced as a demonstration sport at the 14th BIPOGA held in Ibadan, Oyo State, MMA became a fully recognised and scoring sport for the first time at the 15th edition in Asaba.

“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.

The NPF boosted the growth of MMA by establishing its MMA Association, chaired by Chijioke, and formally sanctioning the sport after its demonstration outing at the Ibadan edition of the Police Games.

Chijioke said the Force also funded national championships, developed globally competitive athletes, and secured Inspector-General of Police-level endorsement to legitimise MMA in Nigeria.

“Institutional backing has been critical in building credibility, attracting talent, and positioning Nigeria on the global MMA stage,” he said.

He quoted the former Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, as describing the initiative as “visionary leadership in combat sports development.”

Chijioke highlighted the achievements of police athletes such as Juliet Chukwu, Juliet Ukah, and Ewah Bernard, noting that they have gained international exposure and brought pride to both the Nigeria Police Force and the country.

“These athletes embody our vision, demonstrating discipline, excellence, and national pride through MMA,” he said.

He added that Nigerians should expect further progress under the current leadership of the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as efforts continue to deepen the sport’s growth and global competitiveness.