By Bavoriat Clara
Athletic talent, discipline and team spirit took centre stage as Command Day Secondary School, Abuja, held its 17th Annual Inter-House Sports Competition, reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s commitment to grooming physically fit, disciplined and leadership-driven students.
The school arena came alive with colourful displays and keen competition as students participated in various track and field events, cheered on by parents, teachers and senior military officers who attended the ceremony.
The Special Guest of Honour, Director of Leadership Development Institution, Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Brigadier General Ogheneyerowo Charles Onovwiona, described the event as a clear reflection of the Nigerian Army’s long-standing investment in youth development. He noted that early exposure to organised sports helps instil confidence, discipline, resilience and leadership qualities in young students.
Drawing from personal experience, Brigadier General Onovwiona said sporting activities played a major role in shaping his early life, recalling his days as a student-athlete at Army Children School, Keffi. He commended the school authorities for sustaining a culture that blends academics with physical development, stressing that such balance is critical to nation building.
According to him, sports development remains a core component of the Nigerian Army’s educational philosophy, adding that the Army has continued to provide facilities and institutional support to Command Schools to enhance sporting programmes and overall student welfare.
Declaring the competition open, the Commandant of Command Day Secondary School, Abuja, Lieutenant Colonel Oghenevia Akise, said the inter-house sports competition was designed to promote unity, teamwork and healthy rivalry among students. He explained that beyond medals and trophies, the event serves as a platform to build character, discipline and respect for rules.
Lieutenant Colonel Akise encouraged students to compete fairly and uphold the values of honour and integrity, noting that participation itself is a major victory. He also appreciated the efforts of staff, soldiers, organisers and sponsors for their roles in the success of the event.
Also speaking, the Director of Sports, Nigerian Army, Colonel Sakir Isah, said the competition aligns with the Army’s broader goal of fostering unity and physical fitness among young Nigerians. He described the event as free, fair and well coordinated, commending the enthusiasm of both participants and supporters.
Colonel Isah noted that such programmes help identify young talents while keeping students mentally and physically balanced, adding that the initiative would continue to be strengthened across Army-owned schools.
The 17th Inter-House Sports Competition concluded with a display of sportsmanship and camaraderie, reinforcing Command Day Secondary School Abuja’s role in producing disciplined, confident and well-rounded future leaders.
admin