The stage is set for an exhilarating display of sporting prowess as Lagos gears up to host the highly anticipated biannual Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) Games.
The Games, according to the organisers, will hold from Monday, 19th February to Saturday 24th 2024 at the University of Lagos Sports Complex and the Ikeja Golf Course.
The week-long sporting fiesta promises to be a celebration of athletic talent and camaraderie amongst medical professionals from across the nation. Dubbed “Eko 2024 NMA Doctors Games”, it is expected to be an explosive and entertaining event where skills meet thrills and frills as teams and individuals, comprising over 1,000 medical doctors from 7 regional zones compete for honours.
Games to be competed for include football, basketball, volleyball, golf, athletics, chess and scrabble. Others are Ayo, table tennis, badminton, tennis and draughts. The Games aim not only to promote physical activity and healthy competition but also to foster unity and solidarity within the medical community as the defending champions from the South-South zone get ready to defend their title and offer something new for everyone to enjoy.
“After a highly competitive bid, we are thrilled to have been awarded the hosting rights, a firm acknowledgement of Lagos renowned vibrant energy and passion for sports. This event provides an excellent showcase for doctors to come together, using sports as a tool to inspire, connect and strengthen bonds within the medical community.
“Given the conditions of service in many medical circles across Nigeria, it is essential we create an avenue to celebrate, network and help foster healthier lifestyles as well as mental acuity using the instrumentality of sports. Lagos is ready to host the best games that the NMA has experienced in a long time providing best-in-class hospitality, state-of-the-art sporting facilities and a convivial environment that meets the set objectives of the Games founding fathers,” the chairman NMA Lagos zone and Head LOC for NMA National Games Eko 2024, Dr Benjamin Olowojebutu said.
In addition to the competitive events, the NMA Doctors’ Games will also feature musical and cultural showcases, networking opportunities, talk shops and special ceremonies to honour all outstanding athletes and participants alike. The organisers also promised to deliver a memorable and successful Games that will leave a lasting legacy in the annals of the NMA’s sports history.