The Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF) has advised parents and guardians to support their children that show interest in sports, saying that sports have many benefits to individuals and the society.
Speaking at the 24th Nestle Milo Secondary School Basketball Championships in Lagos, NSSF President, Olabisi Joseph, emphasised that engaging in sports helps develop a child’s psychomotor skills and contributes to a holistic education.
Joseph highlighted the importance of not solely focusing on academic performance, but also integrating sports into a child’s development. Commending Nestle Nigerian Plc’s commitment to the yearly championships, which have consistently produced talented athletes for the country, she disclosed that the NSSF aims to continue its innovative approach by organising an all-round national final event that encompasses sports, education, culture, and inclusion.
The Milo School Basketball Championship, now in its 26th year, has become a beacon of excellence, nurturing grassroots basketball talent and providing valuable life skills to young Nigerian students.
This year’s championship, which began with state preliminaries in March, involved over 10,000 schools. The participating teams in this year’s grand finale include Government Secondary School, Karu, FCT, Abuja; Zarumai Model School, Minna, Niger State; Queen Amina College, Kaduna, Kaduna State; Dom- Domingos College, Warri, Delta State; Topfield College Ajegunle Apapa and Onireke High School, Ibadan, Oyo State in the girls’ event
Teams expected to compete in the boys’ category include Father O’Connell Science College, Minna, Niger State; Rumfa College, Kano, Kano State; Government Day Secondary School, Pantami, Gombe; Bishop Dimieari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa; Ijaye Housing Estate Grammar School, Ijaye, Lagos and FAAN Secondary School, Calabar, Cross River State. The national finals will hold at the National Stadium, Surulere, from June 23 to 28, 2024.
