Mixed Martial Arts made its official debut as a medal-scoring sport at the 15th National Sports Festival, following its successful inclusion in the 15th Biennial Police Games (BIPOGA) held in Asaba, Delta State, from February 14 to February 21. The event featured competitors from 17 Police Zonal Commands and the Force Headquarters, marking a significant shift in the recognition of MMA in Nigeria. According to CSP Kalu Chijioke, a board member of the Nigeria Mixed Martial Arts Federation and chairman of the Nigeria Police MMA Association, the sport's elevation stems from institutional support by the Nigeria Police Force. MMA had previously appeared as a demonstration sport at the 14th BIPOGA in Ibadan, Oyo State, before gaining full recognition in Asaba. Chijioke credited the Police Force for funding national championships, establishing a formal MMA Association and securing high-level endorsements, including from former Inspector-General of Police Kayode Egbetokun, who described the initiative as "visionary leadership in combat sports development." The development has elevated athletes like Juliet Chukwu, Juliet Ukah and Ewah Bernard to national prominence, with their performances bringing visibility to both the police force and Nigeria. The Nigeria Police Force's continued backing under current Inspector-General of Police Olatunji Disu is expected to sustain momentum in the sport.
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