By Adebola Isimijola, Lagos

The Commissioner of Police in Ogun State, Bode Ojajuni, has pledged adequate security for the 2026 OtaFEST Nigeria Festival while commending organisers for using culture, sports and entertainment to promote youth development and community engagement.

Ojajuni gave the assurance on Friday when he received Nigeria Police officer and world boxing champion, ASP Olagbade Sulaimon, popularly known as Tyson Kill, alongside the OtaFEST Nigeria organising team on a courtesy visit to the Police Command Headquarters in Eleweran, Abeokuta.

The delegation, led by OtaFEST Executive Producer and Creative Director, Michael Gomwalk Adebowale, briefed the police commissioner on preparations for the festival, which is expected to feature cultural exhibitions, trade activities, entertainment and sporting events.

A major attraction of the festival, they said, will be an international boxing contest in which Sulaimon will headline a bout against a professional boxer from Lithuania.

The organisers described OtaFEST as a platform aimed at promoting African creativity, expanding opportunities for young people and fostering community development through sports, culture and commerce. They also sought the continued support of the Ogun State Police Command to ensure a peaceful and successful event.

Responding, Ojajuni applauded the initiative, describing it as a positive avenue for youth empowerment, tourism and economic growth.

The police commissioner also praised Sulaimon for bringing honour to the Nigeria Police Force through his exploits in international boxing, describing him as a disciplined officer whose achievements have projected the image of the Force globally.

He noted that the boxer has won several titles during his career, including the Nigerian National Super Welterweight Championship, the West African Boxing Union title, the World Boxing Union title, and currently holds the World Boxing Body Super Welterweight Championship and the Heritage Boxing International Middleweight Championship.

According to Ojajuni, the officer’s success demonstrates discipline, resilience and professionalism, adding that his accomplishments serve as an inspiration to young Nigerians.

He reaffirmed the command’s commitment to supporting sports development and community-oriented policing, stressing that such initiatives contribute to peace, unity and social development.

The commissioner assured the organisers that the police would provide adequate security within the confines of the law to guarantee a peaceful and hitch-free festival, while urging all stakeholders to work together to maintain public order.