A retired military officer, Gbenga Adegbola, has urged governments and stakeholders to prioritise school-based sports development as a strategic tool for addressing drug abuse, youth idleness, and rising social vices.

Adegbola made the call in Saki, Oyo State, while speaking as chief guest at the maiden inter-house sports competition of Command Secondary School. He said sports at the grassroots level should be seen as a deliberate social and economic intervention, not merely a recreational exercise.

According to him, early participation in organised sports instils discipline, resilience, and a sense of purpose in young people, helping to steer them away from destructive behaviours.
“Sports is more than a game; it is a platform for discipline, character formation, and national pride,” Adegbola said. “When we invest in school sports, we are not only developing athletes but nurturing focused, confident, and productive citizens.”

He warned that the absence of structured activities for young people contributes significantly to drug abuse and criminal tendencies, noting that prolonged idleness leaves youths vulnerable to negative influences.
“Idleness is dangerous. It exposes young people to drugs, crime, and despair,” he said. “Sport gives them direction, teaches teamwork and discipline, and shows that success is built on focus and commitment.”

Highlighting Oyo State’s large youth population and numerous schools, Adegbola said relying on chance to discover sporting talent was unsustainable, stressing the need for a systematic approach to talent development.
“Globally, sports is a major economic sector that creates careers, scholarships, and wealth,” he noted. “Oyo State must build structures that identify and nurture talent from the school level to national and international stages.”

The inter-house sports competition featured track and field events, with teachers reporting increased student participation, cooperation, and enthusiasm.
One teacher described the event as impactful, saying it promotes “holistic development of the mind, body, and character.”

Adegbola called on government agencies, private sector organisations, and community leaders to support schools through improved facilities, trained coaches, and structured programmes, arguing that early exposure to organised sports would better prepare young people for future opportunities.
“When we invest early, we secure a generation equipped to excel,” he said.