Ado Salisu
The National Sports Commission (NSC) has commended the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), and the Nigeria Chess Federation NCF for successfully hosting the inaugural National School Board Games.
The event, which featured chess in its pilot phase, brought together over 300 students from across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, competing in various age categories. The tournament aimed to promote critical thinking, discipline, and competitive excellence among young athletes.
NSC Chairman Mallam Shehu Dikko represented by the Technical Assistant, Strategy & Research Mr Lanre Ogunjibi praised the initiative, emphasizing the Commission’s commitment to fostering intellectual and physical sports development.
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He encouraged students to remain dedicated to their aspirations, highlighting the importance of experiences gained during the tournament in shaping their future.
The NSC recognized school sports as a vital platform for talent discovery and development, with the potential to produce future champions representing Nigeria globally.
The Commission plans to expand the initiative to include additional sporting disciplines in future editions.
Key stakeholders, including the Lagos State Commissioner of Education Mr. Jumiu Alli-Balogun, and the Vice President of the Nigeria Chess Federation,Prince Adeyinka Adewole expressed strong support for the initiative.
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The NSC commended the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF), Lagos SUBEB, the Nigeria Chess Federation and all relevant lstakeholders for their efforts in delivering a successful and impactful event, reaffirming its support for initiatives promoting youth engagement and talent development through sports.
Speaking at the event, the President of the NSSF, Dr. Olabisi Joseph, expressed appreciation to the NSC Chairman Mallam Dikko and Director-General Hon. Bukola Olopade for the support.
She also reaffirmed the NSSF’s commitment to grassroots sports development and stated that she looks forward to continued NSC support for the Federation’s programs, which have already been submitted to the Commission.