Category: The Nation – Nigeria

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has forwarded the name of Dr. Bernard Mohammed Doro from Plateau State to the Senate for confirmation as a Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

The President’s request was in a statement yesterday in Abuja by the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga.

In a letter transmitted to the National Assembly, President Tinubu requested the Red Chamber to screen and confirm Dr. Doro, who is expected to fill the ministerial slot of Plateau State, following the election of Professor Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda as the National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in July.

Yilwatda had previously served as Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction before assuming the party’s top leadership position.

Born on January 23, 1969, in Kwall, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, Dr. Doro brings to the federal cabinet over two decades of multidisciplinary experience spanning clinical practice, pharmaceutical management, strategic leadership, and community engagement in both the United Kingdom (UK) and Nigeria.

A highly accomplished professional, Dr. Doro holds degrees in Pharmacy and Law, an MBA with a focus on IT-driven business strategy, and a Master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice.

He is also an Independent Prescriber and Advanced Clinical Practitioner with extensive frontline experience in the United Kingdom’s National Health Service (NHS), having served in urgent care, walk-in centres, general practice, and hospital settings.

Beyond his professional career, Dr. Doro has been actively involved in youth mentorship and social impact initiatives, both in the Nigerian diaspora and within local communities.

The House of Representatives is seeking to improve the service efficiency of the Nigerian Armed Forces through the amendment of the Armed Forces Act to strengthen the command structure, improve operational efficiency, and enhance accountability within the Nigerian Armed Forces.

The House passed for second reading a bill seeking to amend the Armed Forces Act, Cap. A20, Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 sponsored by Aminu Balele (APC, Katsina), Midala Usman Balami (PDP, Borno) and Daniel Asama (APC, Benue)

Leading the debate on the general principles of the bill Balami said that the proposed legislation aims to ‘clarify the roles, responsibilities, and command structure of the Armed Forces of Nigeria, ensuring effective coordination, discipline, and operational efficiency.’

He said the passage of the amendment was crucial to modernising Nigeria’s military laws in line with constitutional provisions and global best practices.

He explained that the proposed changes will promote operational efficiency, constitutional compliance, civilian oversight, and enhanced accountability in the military.

He said further that the bill seeks to reaffirm the President’s role as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, with the Chief of Defence Staff exercising ‘general superintendence’ over the military’s command and coordination.

‘The Bill delineates the roles and responsibilities of the Forces Council, the Minister of Defence, and the Service Chiefs, while clarifying the delegation of operational use of the Armed Forces, ensuring that the President’s authority is maintained.

‘The proposed amendment to the Armed Forces Act is essential for enhancing the operational efficiency, accountability, and effectiveness of the Armed Forces of Nigeria.

‘I therefore urge my respected colleagues to support that this Bill be read for the second time and referred to the relevant committee for further legislative action.’

Notable elders and stakeholders in sports have thrown their support behind Alhaja Kafilat Olawunmi Olalere, who has called for a transparent and credible electoral process for key leadership positions into the Gymnastics Federation of Nigeria (GFN).

At a well-attended gathering yesterday, October 21st, inside the Board Room of the National Sports Commission (NSC) at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, Alhaja Olalere, a South West representative and presidential aspirant, was accompanied by key stakeholders including Tosin Odumosu and Bashiru Hassan.

Olalere, who is bidding to replace Kelvin Erhunmwunse, the incumbent president who has served three consecutive terms, said the leadership of the sport must embrace inclusivity, gender balance and accountability if gymnastics in Nigeria is to regain its lost glory.

‘There is pressure for me to accept the vice presidency in a pre-arranged deal but that would disenfranchise stakeholders,’ she said. ‘We are insisting on proper zonal elections not appointments fixed behind closed doors.

‘ Anything short of a fair process would abuse my integrity and cause further grievances,’ she counselled.

She disclosed that the Sports Commission had earlier announced the election would hold on October 18 but due to unforeseen circumstances, it was shifted to Saturday, October 25.

Speaking on the current imbroglio, a former Technical Director at the African Gymnastics Union (UAG), Coach Ben Alonge, alleged that the last GFN elections conducted under Kelvin Erhunmwunse were fraudulent and violated established guidelines.

‘Kelvin was not elected rather he was selected,’ Alonge claimed. ‘The National Sports Commission cancelled that election two weeks after it was held because due process was not followed. Yet, he continued in office.’

He further accused the outgoing president of conducting a secret election at a hotel in Asaba without the participation of crucial bodies such as the NSC, NAPHER-SD, and the paramilitary constituency.

‘No secretary general, no National; Sports Commission and no observers were present,’ Alonge said. ‘It was a kangaroo election done behind closed doors.’

He urged the NSC to conduct a fresh, transparent election to restore sanity and credibility to the federation.

‘Gymnastics in Nigeria has been dead for years due to fraudulent leadership. A proper election is the only way forward,’ Alonge noted.

Meanwhile, Alhaja Olalere , who has served as a South-West representative for four years, emphasized the need to reform the federation’s structure and restore credibility through transparent elections.

She volunteered: ‘We have gathered from the South West to the South East to discuss how to reform gymnastics, she explained. We must rebuild our system by bringing back experienced coaches, training new judges and creating a digital database for our activities.’

She lamented that Nigeria still lacks basic facilities, equipment, and a digital platform such as a website for the sport.

‘In many zones, children train in dilapidated environments,’ she said.

‘Gymnastics is one of the most loved sports among children, yet it receives little recognition nationally or internationally. We must change that.’

Speaking from personal experience, Alhaji Kafilat revealed that both her seven-year-old son and daughter participate in gymnastics at school, she reveals this also fuels her passion for the sport’s development.

‘Seeing my children limited to school activities despite their potential drives me as a mother and stakeholder to push for reform,’ she noted.

She further urged parents to support their children’s involvement in the sport, noting that gymnastics instils discipline, fitness, and balance from an early age.

‘Gymnastics starts from the age of three, four or five. It builds strength, character, and focus. With the right leadership, equipment, and support, Nigeria can produce world class gymnasts,’ she added.

The Lagos State Government has once again demonstrated its commitment to the welfare of its workforce as it celebrated the 111th batch of retirees with the presentation of Retirement Bond Certificates of over N1billion.

During the event, held at NECA House, Alausa, the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, represented by the Director of the Post-Service Department, Mrs. Bukola Durodola, advised the retirees to invest wisely and take advantage of post-service empowerment initiatives and wellness programmes provided by the State Government

Agoro commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for approving N1.003billion for the payment of accrued pension rights to 465 retirees across the state’s civil service, local governments, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), the Teaching Service Commission (TESCOM) and parastatals.

He noted that the gesture reflects the Governor’s compassion and dedication to ensuring that those who have served Lagos faithfully are not forgotten.

He reminded the retirees that their pension benefits were designed to sustain them in retirement.

Agoro lauded Governor Sanwo-Olu and LASPEC for maintaining a transparent and reliable pension administration process.

In his welcome address, the Director-General of LASPEC, Mr. Babalola Obilana, expressed deep appreciation to the State Government for consistently prioritizing workers’ welfare despite prevailing economic challenges.

He noted that under the leadership of Governor Sanwo-Olu, Lagos has remained a model for pension administration in Nigeria, ensuring prompt and transparent disbursement of retirement benefits.

Obilana reaffirmed LASPEC’s dedication to ensuring that every retiree who served the State receives their entitlements without delay.

He said: ‘Our duty at LASPEC is to ensure that no one who has served Lagos faithfully leaves without receiving what is due to them. We have leveraged automation, data management, and collaboration with Pension Fund Administrators to enhance transparency and efficiency,’ he said.

He congratulated the retirees and encouraged them to invest prudently, remain active, and enjoy a peaceful and rewarding retirement.

In his goodwill remarks, the Executive Director of LASPEC, Mr. Olumuyiwa Oshin, encouraged the retirees to ‘refire, not retire,’ noting that retirement is not an end but the beginning of a new chapter filled with opportunities for service and fulfillment.

Meanwhile, LASPEC has again prepared over 1000 public servants from the State Public Service for retirement.

The would-be retirees were provided with detailed information and comprehensive assistance during the 29th Retirement Benefit Documentation Seminar in order to transition effortlessly to the next chapter of their lives.

The Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, said the sensitization programme marks the 3rd Seminar of its kind organized by LASPEC this year.

He stated that such consistency demonstrates the importance placed on a smooth and efficient documentation process for all retirees and reinforces the State’s commitment to supporting its workforce through every stage of their service journey.

Agoro assured the prospective retirees that the administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State, is steadfast in its unwavering commitment to guaranteeing their welfare and well-being, even after retirement.

He said: ‘The main objective of this programme is to provide detailed information and comprehensive assistance for retiring Officers in order to transition effortlessly to the next chapter of their lives. It is of utmost importance that retiring officers take advantage of this seminar by listening attentively and asking relevant questions that will shed more lights on simplifying the processes of remitting their retirement benefits without delay.

‘Let me mention that the Lagos State Government appreciates your selfless service, sacrifices and commitment to our beloved State. Without a doubt, your expertise, experience, and institutional knowledge have shaped our public service and in appreciation, the Institution has deemed it fit to give the necessary assistance that will ease the process of remittance of your retirement benefit.

‘Let me also assure you that as long as your documentation is up to date, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Pension Commission, will ensure prompt processing and remittance of your retirement benefits’, he said.

In a decisive stride toward sustained financial recovery and growth, International Energy Insurance (IEI) Plc has convened a strategic stakeholders’ engagement to unveil its recapitalisation roadmap ahead of an Extraordinary General Meeting (EGM) scheduled for next month.

The session, which brought together members of the board, management team, and key stakeholders, outlined the company’s N22.5 billion recapitalisation target, signalling IEI’s renewed commitment to financial stability, market leadership, and long-term value creation within Nigeria’s insurance landscape.

The move comes on the heels of remarkable milestones that have redefined the insurer’s trajectory. Earlier this month, IEI Plc announced its successful relisting on the Nigerian Exchange (NGX), alongside the full repayment of a longstanding N14 billion Daewoo loan, which had constrained its growth for years.

This financial rebound has been further strengthened by the receipt of N2 billion in deposits for shares, expected to be converted to equity within the current financial year pending regulatory approval – a testament to investor confidence and IEI’s strengthened market credibility.

Speaking during the session, Dr. Joyce Odiachi, Acting Managing Director of IEI Plc, reaffirmed the company’s renewed focus on transparency, accountability, and stakeholder value.

‘IEI has turned a critical corner. We have navigated through our legacy challenges and are now strategically positioned for sustainable growth. Our recapitalisation programme is not just about meeting regulatory requirements; it is about deepening our capacity to deliver consistent value to policyholders, shareholders, and the Nigerian insurance sector at large,’ she said.

Also addressing the forum, Dr. Adeyinka Hassan and Mr. Tony Edeh, both Non-Executive Directors, emphasised that the recapitalisation exercise reflects IEI’s governance discipline and inclusive approach to stakeholder engagement.

The company’s management team, including Chief Financial Officer, Mr. Uyi Osagie, and Mr. Moses Igbrude, Chairman of the Statutory Audit Committee, fielded key fielded key questions from stakeholders, assuring them of prudent financial management and adherence to regulatory best practices.

To drive the capital raise, IEI Plc has appointed CardinalStone Partners Limited and Vertiva Capital Management Limited as Lead Financial Advisers. The recapitalisation process-comprising a private placement, offer for sale, and rights issue-is scheduled to commence in February 2026, subject to regulatory and shareholder approvals.

With the strategic backing of its core investor, the Norrenberger Group, IEI is leveraging a wider financial ecosystem and operational synergies to accelerate execution and deepen market presence.

‘This engagement marks the beginning of a new era for IEI. We are building a more resilient and transparent institution, one that will deliver sustainable profitability and lead innovation in Nigeria’s insurance industry.

‘The upcoming Extraordinary General Meeting is expected to be a defining event, consolidating the company’s recent gains and formally setting it on the path toward sustained profitability and industry leadership’, Dr. Odiachi added.

Niger Governor Umaru Bago has declared he will never negotiate with bandits or pay ransom for kidnapped victims.

The Governor called on the people in affected communities where bandits frequent to stand up and defend themselves.

Speaking during a condolence visit to the people of Rijau and Magama Local Government Areas whose communities were recently attacked by bandits in Kontagora, the Governor stated tackling insecurity needs collective action and resistance.

‘I will not negotiate with bandits. I will not pay ransom. The moment we start paying, they will open shop on our heads and keep kidnapping people,’ he said.

He added: ‘We are surrounded by enemies but we will not give up. The Constitution gives us the right to defend our lives and property, and we will do just that. There is no going back.’

Bago described it as embarrassing and unacceptable that communities could be invaded and residents turned into Internally Displaced Persons. He announced plans to recruit and train 10,000 members into the Joint Task Force (JTF) to help restore security, with recruitment beginning immediately.

Bago also declared total ban on mining across the entire Zone C of the State, which covers eight local government areas, including Magama, Kontagora, Rijau, Wushishi, Mariga, Borgu, Mashegu and Agwara.

Detained self acclaimed leader of the proscribed separatist group, the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu concluded his private consultation with his legal team, led by former Attorney General of the Federation (AGF), Kanu Agabi (SAN), a moment ago.

The Nation confirmed that Kanu, who was brought to court by officials of the Department of State Services (DSS), met with members of his legal team.

The meeting was held in the Court 7, located on the second floor of the Federal High Court headquarters complex in Abuja, the same courtroom where proceedings in his ongoing terrorism trial is being conducted.

Going by the schedule of proceedings in the case, issued by Justice James Omotosho on September 16, the meeting is part of the defence team’s preparation for the commencement of the defendant’s case on Thursday, October 23.

Justice Omotosho, on October 16 granted the defendant six consecutive days, begining from October 23, to open and close his defence in view of the accelerated hearing earlier granted in the case.

Agabi, who did not object to the six days granted by the court, however applied orally for the court to grant Kanu’s legal team and opportunity for a private consultation session with the defendant, outside the premises of the Department of State Services (DSS).

Agabi said the defendant’s legal team was afraid that its consultation with him (Kanu) could be tapped or recorded by the DSS.

Justice Omotosho granted the request and also acceded to Agabi’s request that the private meeting with Kanu be held in the courtroom, during which only the defendant and his lawyers would be present.

By the court’s directive, the private consultation meeting was to hold within the courtroom between 9am and 12nooon on October 22, while the trial will resume on October 23, when Kanu is to open his defence.

The Chief of Staff to the President, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, on Wednesday inaugurated a secondary school in Itire-Ikate Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in Surulere area of Lagos,the first- ever public secondary school in the community.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN)reports that the school was facilitated by the Chief of Staff to the President.

Inaugurating the school, Gbajabiamila Junior Secondary School, the Chief of Staff said hardship faced by parents and guardians accessing secondary education for their children and wards had ended.

‘This event marks a defining milestone in our collective pursuit of accessible, quality education for every child in this community.

‘It is not merely opening a new institution but the birth of opportunity, progress, and renewed hope for generations to come.

‘For the first time in the history of Itire-lkate, this community now has a public secondary school within its borders,’ he said.

Gbajabiamila, who was represented by Rep. Lanre Okunola, member representing Surulere II at the House of Representatives, said that parents had been watched their children travel long distances daily to attend schools outside their community for many years.

He added: ‘Some faced daily hardships and safety concerns, while others abandoned their education altogether.

Today, that struggle has ended.

‘This school stands as a beacon of inclusion, ensuring that no child in Itire-lkate is left behind because of geography or circumstances, which also reflects the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu to provide continuous support for education at all levels in Nigeria.’

According to him, education has always been the foundation of every prosperous society as it empowers individuals, transforms communities, and builds nations.

Gbajabiamila said that throughout his years in public service, he had remained deeply committed to advancing education at all levels.

He recounted that during his tenure as Speaker of the House of Representatives, he championed the Students’ Loan Bill, now signed into law.

Thanking President Tinubu for assenting to the bill, he said that the idea aimed to ensure that every young Nigerian, regardless of financial background, could pursue higher education without the burden of cost.

‘However, education does not start at university; it begins in schools like this, where young minds are nurtured and shaped for the future,’ he said.

He said that his involvement with education had never been limited to policy or legislation.

‘In Surulere, we have worked to renovate schools, equip classrooms, and provide teaching aids.

‘I have volunteered to teach in secondary schools, believing leadership must be demonstrated through action, not just words.

‘By sharing my time and experience with students, I have seen firsthand how education fosters discipline, confidence, and purpose.

‘This school embodies the same commitment to give every child the opportunity to learn, dream, and succeed,’ he added.

The chief of staff appreciated the leaders, stakeholders, and people of Itire-lkate LCDA for naming the institution after him.

According to him, the influence of the institution will extend well beyond its classrooms.

‘It will create jobs for teachers, administrators, and support staff, and it will serve as a centre of learning and community pride.

‘It will shape the next generation of leaders, innovators, and professionals who will contribute to the progress of Lagos State and Nigeria.

‘When a community invests in education, it invests in peace, prosperity, and continuity,’ he said.

The chief of staff expressed gratitude to the State Government, particularly the Ministry of Basic Education, for their partnership and commitment to integrating the school into the public education system.

Speaking, Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu said that the inauguration of Femi Gbajabiamila Junior Secondary School, was a testament to the power of philanthropy and dedication in the delivery of transformative intervention that can change the community forever.

Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr Jamiu Alli-Balogun described the project as life- transforming.

‘The frontier of education governance globally is predicated on collaboration and partnership with the government on building a better and brighter tomorrow for our children.

‘With access to qualitative education in the state, I extend my heartfelt congratulations to the chief of staff to Mr President and by extension to everyone that has contributed to the realisation of this remarkable project.

‘This life-transforming project no doubt profoundly impacts countless students, shaping the future and contributing importantly to the advancement of the education sector, particularly in the Itire-Ikate and the state in general.

He said that the school would serve as a beacon of hope and a symbol of progress the state worked hard to achieve.

‘The project embodies our collective commitment to providing, quality education, equipping our children with skills, knowledge, values necessary to excel in life.

‘This project in no doubt aligns with the present administration ‘s THEMES Plus Agenda, in which education and technology stood out as a top pillar,’ he said.

Also speaking, Rep. Fuad Laguda, representing Surulere 1 Federal Constituency, noted that Gbajabiamila’s numerous interventions had continued to put him on his toes, as the former speaker’s successor.

Speaking, Chairman, Coker/Aguda LCDA, Mr Azeez Ogidan, described the project as monumental and a big gift for Surulere constituency.

Ogidan said that Gbajabiamila had over the years demonstrated visionary leadership and passion for service with a far-reaching impact on education, healthcare, infrastructure and youth empowerment.

According to him, Gbajabiamila’s interventions have continued to touch lives, transform communities and strengthen the social fabrics of Surulere.

‘This school stands not only as the beacon of knowledge,but also as a lasting legacy of Gbajabiamila’s education impact, building a brighter future for our children,’ he said.

He said that Gbajabiamila’s impacts in Coker/Aguda and Itire-Ikate LCDAs,which together form Surulere Constituency 2, had continued to inspire confidence in the people.

The chairman said that both councils were also delighted to know that contractors would soon resume work at the fire station project in Coker/Aguda-another initiative facilitated by Gbajabiamila.

Responding, the Chairman, Itire-Ikate LCDA, Mr Oluwafemi Odunayo, who applauded Gbajabiamila for the ‘impactful project’, described the school as a milestone in the community.

‘This is a testament of Gbajabiamila’s unwavering commitment to development of our community and the education of our youths,’ Odunayo said.

He said that the council had also done a lot in supporting educational development in the area, including distribution of over 200 free GCE forms, no fewer than 5000 school uniforms and school bags.

The chairman said that the council would make good use of the school.

NAN reports that the event was attended by various stakeholders,including Mr Desmond Elliot,representing Surulere 1 in the State House of Assembly ,and Mrs Mosunmola Sangodara,representing Surulere 2.

A traditional ruler, Oba Lateef Adams, the Onikate of Surulere, was among those who attended the inauguration.

The GOTNI Leadership Centre (GLC) in Abuja played host to a historic diplomatic engagement on Tuesday as The Honourable Dickon Mitchell, Prime Minister of Grenada, paid an official visit to the institution.

The Prime Minister was warmly received by GLC’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Linus Okorie.

The visit, described as a milestone for South-South collaboration, highlighted the shared mission between Africa and the Caribbean to foster transformational leadership and deepen global Black community ties.

During the visit, Prime Minister Mitchell commended GLC’s pioneering role in developing principled and capable leaders.

‘GOTNI’s work in developing principled, capable leaders is invaluable. Africa and the Caribbean share a common heritage and a common future. Our prosperity will be shaped by the quality of leaders we raise at national, regional, and community levels-and by partnerships like this that convert shared heritage into shared advancement,’ Mitchell said.

A strategic dialogue session, led by Dr. Okorie, explored key themes around equipping emerging leaders to drive systemic transformation. Discussions centered on expanding education beyond classroom learning to include moral values and behavioral intelligence, prioritizing health and wellness for productivity, and promoting intergenerational wealth creation.

The session also called for reforming political systems to align governance with people-centered development.

The meeting opened new opportunities for economic partnership between Grenada and Nigeria. Using the GOTNI platform, Prime Minister Mitchell outlined several areas of potential collaboration, including luxury real estate and hospitality, offshore oil and gas development, and participation in Grenada’s Investment Migration Programme through the National Transformation Fund or approved real estate projects.

He also advocated for direct air connections between Africa and the Caribbean to strengthen trade, cultural exchange, and diplomatic cooperation.

Speaking on the significance of the visit, Dr. Okorie described it as a defining moment for Africa’s leadership influence on the global stage.

‘Our partnership with Prime Minister Dickon Mitchell and the people of Grenada signals a new chapter in leadership export from Africa to the world,’ he said.

‘GOTNI exists to raise a new cadre of ethical, visionary leaders who build institutions, create wealth, and

advance human flourishing. By connecting Africa’s leadership assets with emerging Caribbean

opportunities, we are expanding what is possible for the Global Black

Community-economically, culturally, and civically,’ said Dr. Linus Okorie, MFR.

The engagement concluded with a shared commitment to pursue long-term leadership.development initiatives across Grenada and the broader Caribbean, aligning GOTNI’s globally

tested leadership philosophy with regional growth aspirations.

Both parties reaffirmed their dedication to building a new wave of transformational leaders who will drive inclusive growth, institutional trust, and lasting prosperity.

About GOTNI Leadership Centre (GLC)

GOTNI Leadership Centre is a premier leadership development institution headquartered in Abuja, Nigeria, dedicated to building ethical, competent leaders for Africa and the global

marketplace.

Through world-class programmes, executive coaching, and

institution-strengthening frameworks, GLC equips leaders to transform organisations, strengthen governance, and create sustainable prosperity.

The Lagos State Sports Commission and the organisers of the Africa School Games have resolved to strengthen their partnership for talent discovery and development in the state, following the successful completion of the inaugural edition of the games in Lagos.

About 11 schools in Lagos took part in the three-day tournament, which featured spirited competitions in swimming, athletics, and football in the U-11, U-13, and U-15 categories. The British International School hosted the inaugural edition with other schools like Grange School, St Savoiurs School, RiverBank School, Supreme Education Foundation, and Avi-Cenna featuring prominently.

The event was championed by sports enthusiasts, Dr. Seun Akinbohun, Dr. Busola Tejumola and Aderoju Ope-Ajayi, who envision a structured school sports ecosystem built on three pillars: continental competition, talent identification, and ecosystem building.

Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, noted that the Africa School Games exemplifies the state’s resolve for talent development and inclusive scouting.

‘We know that schools provide a better environment for talents to be discovered and nurtured. This is a private initiative, but during the course of the partnership, we did make sure that the path of inclusivity isn’t left out, so we have our public schools being part of this,’ Fatodu said.

‘I am particularly impressed that the inaugural edition was successfully managed, and I am confident that the subsequent ones will engage more schools across the continent.’

The organisers also acknowledged the state’s effort in ensuring the success of the initiative.

‘With Lagos State, we know of the Ibile Games and Governor Sanwo-Olu’s passion to drive youth empowerment through sports, and they have been amazing partners for us. Key endorsements came from Lagos State, and we are grateful for that,’ one of the co-founders, Ope-Ajayi said.

Reflecting on the success of the inaugural edition, the organisers have also expressed their readiness to welcome schools from other African countries in subsequent editions.

‘Absolutely, that is our plan. We will definitely have swimming, athletics, and football. Next year, we will be ready to host the whole of Africa in Lagos. We are ready for as many that can come.

Another co-founder, Dr Tejumola, also reiterated ASG’s goal of spotlighting talents across Africa.

‘It’s good to see the competitive spirit, expertise and skills that the athletes have come with. Africa School Games is a continental competition and the goal is to create a structured sports ecosystem for talent identification and development in Africa.’

After three days of thrilling competitions, St Saviours were the overall winners in the U-11 category with 1042 points while Grange School won the U-13 category with 1168 points.

British International School and Grange School were tied in the U-15 category, sharing the top prize with 909 points each.