Philemon Ylleng, Team Manager of the NNPC men’s Basketball Team, sayid the team is determined to win gold medal at the ongoing 20th Nigerian Oil and Gas Industry Games (NOGIG) in Abuja.
Ylleng said yesterday that the team’s major objective at the competition was to “deliver value” by emerging overall champions in basketball.
“So far, the games have been very interactive and fun-filled. It has given us the opportunity to reunite and strengthen relationships with our colleagues across the oil and gas industry.
“One of our major objectives in this outing is to deliver value. And when I mean value, it is to take home the ultimate prize, which is the gold medal. We are out to dominate because that is what we believe we are here to do,” he said.
According to him, the team has recorded victories in all three of its matches and currently tops Group A.
“It has been victory all the way. We have won three of our matches, which mean we are leaders in Group A.
“We are going to play the semifinals on Thursday against Seplat Energy basketball team while Nigerian Content Development and Monitoring Board (NCDMB) will face TotalEnergies basketball team ,” he said.
Ylleng described sports as a critical component of life and productivity, noting that NNPC promotes work-life balance among its staff.
“Anytime your work becomes enjoyable, it means you are engaged in sport or a fun-filled activity.
“ At the end of this championship, regardless of who wins, we will go back to work refreshed, re-energised and motivated to deliver value for our businesses,” he said.
He added that the games provide a platform for integration and unity among workers in the industry, which ultimately enhances productivity.
Reflecting on the growth of basketball in the competition, Ylleng said participation had improved significantly, with 10 to 11 teams competing in the 20th edition compared to fewer than five in previous years.
“I would like to see more ko teams participate, especially female teams from the oil and gas industry.
“I have seen one or two ladies joining the men, but I would like to see more women encouraged to come out and play,” he said.
He also called for increased media coverage and talent discovery from the games.
“I would like to see new games introduced and players being selected from the oil and gas industry to represent at higher levels. That will promote the industry games to a larger audience.
“I would also like to see the media create more awareness and sensitisation around the games,” he said.
Ylleng emphasised the need for enhanced incentives beyond monetary benefits.
“Let the gold medal carry significant value, as well as silver and bronze. When awards are truly valued, more people will be willing and eager to participate,” he said.
The 2026 NOGIG commenced on Feb.8 and will end on Feb.14 at the Moshood Abiola Stadium in Abuja.