Ondo state has emerged as the winner of the maiden Basic Education School Sport (BESS) Games after hauling nine gold, 13 silver, and nine bronze medals.
The intercollegiate competition organised by the Nigeria School Sport Federation (NSSF) and the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), was attended by over 1,000 pupils from 25 states.
The states, including the host FCT, competed in nine events: Athletics, Ayo, Badminton, Chess, Table Tennis, Football, Scrabble, Handball, and Volleyball.
Akwa Ibom followed in second place with six gold, five silver, and six bronze medals, while host FCT finished third with five gold, three silver, and nine bronze medals.
At the weekend’s closing ceremony, UBEC Executive Secretary Hamid Bobboyi praised the athletes’ performances, reaffirming the commission’s commitment to school sports development.
FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, represented by his Special Adviser, Technical, Bawa Michael, highlighted the athletes’ performances as evidence of the country’s abundant sporting talent.
NSSF President Olabisi Joseph commended UBEC and the participating states for their commitment, which made the tournament a success.
She emphasized the event’s role in showcasing talent, fostering sportsmanship, and promoting national unity.
“As we close this chapter, we start a new journey to nurture and encourage our young athletes to keep participating in sports, giving them opportunities to compete in global and continental events. We look forward to the next edition,” she said.
The closing ceremony was attended by notable figures, including the Chairman of the House Committee on Basic Education and Services, Mukhtar Shagaya; the Dean of Chairmen, SUBEB, Professor Shehu Adaramaja; Director of Academy Services, UBEC, Mr. Roseline Medubi; and SUBEB Chairman from FCT, Ekiti, Borno, and Anambra.
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