The 20th edition of the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games, popularly known as NOGIG, has officially kicked off in Abuja, ushering in a week of intense competition, networking and renewed industry camaraderie.
The landmark edition opened with a colourful and high-spirited ceremony at the Indoor Sports Hall, Package B of the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, drawing professionals from across Nigeria’s oil and gas sector.
Speaking at the opening, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Engr. Sulaiman Sulaiman, described the Games as a powerful platform for strengthening unity, teamwork and wellness within the industry at a time when collaboration remains critical to sector growth.
Sulaiman disclosed that representatives from 15 oil and gas companies will compete in 13 sporting events throughout the week, noting that the scale of participation reflects the growing relevance of the Games within the sector.
According to him, the Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games have evolved beyond sports to become a symbol of shared purpose and collective strength among industry players. He commended the commitment of participating organisations for prioritising staff welfare despite the demanding nature of oil and gas operations.
The LOC chairman also expressed gratitude to the Grand Patron of NOGIG, the Group Chief Executive Officer of NNPC Limited, alongside chief executives and management teams of all participating companies, for their consistent support of the Games and their investment in employee health and well-being.
He assured participants that extensive preparations had been made to guarantee safety and fairness, revealing that comprehensive security arrangements were put in place in collaboration with relevant agencies, while fully equipped medical teams would remain on standby throughout the competition.
Emphasising the ethos of the Games, Sulaiman reminded athletes that NOGIG is not solely about winning medals but about reinforcing professionalism, discipline and mutual respect.
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“We are not professional athletes. We are professionals who understand that a healthy workforce is essential for operational excellence. Let fairness, discipline and respect guide every contest,” he said.
His remarks struck a chord with participants, reinforcing the idea that while teams may compete fiercely on the field, the industry remains united in its broader mission to power Nigeria’s economy.
As the opening ceremony drew to a close, Sulaiman expressed confidence that the 20th edition would uphold the prestige associated with NOGIG, urging participants to compete with pride and integrity.
The 2026 Nigeria Oil and Gas Industry Games is expected to feature no fewer than 1,200 athletes from leading companies across the sector, competing in 13 sporting disciplines. Beyond the medals, the event is set to celebrate resilience, unity and the enduring collaborative spirit that continues to define Nigeria’s oil and gas industry.
