The Permanent Secretary of the Nigeria’s Ministry of Petroleum Resources, Dr. Emeka Vitalis Obi, officially flagged off the 2025 edition of the Ministry’s Management Games, urging staff to embrace a healthy work-life balance as vital drivers of productivity.
Speaking at the opening ceremony in Abuja, Dr. Obi highlighted the physical, mental and social benefits of regular sporting activities, noting that the Management Games have become a crucial platform for staff to strengthen inter-departmental relationships.
He said such initiatives enhance collaboration and boost morale across the Ministry, while commending the Ministry’s Sports Club and organising a committee for sustaining the initiative since its maiden edition in 2024.
He reaffirmed management’s commitment to promoting staff welfare and supporting innovative programmes that foster unity and excellence in the workplace.
In her remarks, the Director of Human Resources Management, Asma’u Shehu Adaji, described the Management Games as an initiative aligned with the Federal Civil Service Innovation Pillar.
She highlighted that beyond recreation, the Management Games serve as a unifying platform that encourages creativity, collaboration and a shared sense of purpose among staff.
Adaji appreciated the Permanent Secretary and all Directors for their continuous support toward the Management Games and other welfare-oriented activities within the Ministry.
Earlier, the Sports Manager, Egule Ineukiye Lang, explained that the Management Games were introduced in 2024 as part of his team’s innovations to promote staff engagement and wellness.
He acknowledged the pivotal role played by the HR Director and the approval granted by the Permanent Secretary, which made the event possible.
The 2025 Management Games feature a diverse line-up of indoor and outdoor sporting activities, including football, volleyball, table tennis and scrabble among others.
This aims to promote fitness, teamwork and camaraderie among staff.
Competing teams include Team Honourable Minister of State (Oil), Team Honourable Minister of State (Gas), Team Permanent Secretary, and Team Directors, who will battle for medals in the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and fun.
The week-long event is expected to further strengthen interpersonal relationships, enhance staff wellness, and deepen the Ministry’s culture of innovation, excellence, and collaboration.