300 students participate in maiden edition of National School Board Games
Over 300 students participated in the just concluded maiden edition of the National School Board Games organises by the Lagos State Government, in collaboration with the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF).
The two-day chess tournament, held at the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) Multi-Purpose Hall, featured U-9, U-12, U-15, and U-18 categories.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Lagos Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education in Lagos State, Mr. Jamiu Ali-Balogun, applauded all participants for their outstanding performances and commended the organisers for providing a platform that promotes mental development and healthy competition.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to integrating sports into education as a tool for cognitive and character development. “Chess is a game of strategy and intellect and it aligns perfectly with our vision of raising well-rounded individuals capable of critical thinking and leadership in the future,” he stated.
The Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Shittu, expressed profound gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering support in transforming the basic education sector in Lagos State. He highlighted the governor’s commitment to innovative learning initiatives, including extracurricular activities that have enhanced pupils’ intellectual capacity.
“Everyone is a winner here today. We encourage participants who did not win a trophy or medal to see this tournament not just as a competition but as an opportunity to sharpen their cognitive skills and build friendships with peers from different states,” Dr. Shittu remarked.
The President of the NSSF, Mrs. Olabisi Joseph, expressed her enthusiasm about the collaboration with LASUBEB, emphasising the importance of such initiatives in nurturing young talents.
She further noted that the tournament marks the beginning of a broader vision, with plans to introduce more board games such as Scrabble and Monopoly in future editions.
“Winners from this event will represent Nigeria at the International School Sports Federation (ISF) and African School Sports Games in Serbia and Morocco later this year,” she added.
Trophies, medals, and certificates were awarded to the top winners in each category:U-9:Female: Dafiewharen Divine (Lagos State), Male: Dominic Duduefa (Bayelsa State), U-12: Female: Patrick Florence (Lagos State), Male: Joseph Bamidele; U-15: Female: Ebiakpo Treasure (Bayelsa, State) Male: Goodness (Bayelsa State); U-18:Female: Ebiakpo Ebidise Sunshine (Bayelsa State) Male and Nruima Tersse Ferdinand (Lagos State).
