The Nigerian Army in Lagos has flagged off the 2026 Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition, which is a game involving all command secondary schools in Lagos. Flagging off the competition, the Nine Brigade Commander Brigadier General Ayokunle Owolabi applauded the schools participating, expressing optimism about the immense potential of students participating in the 2026 Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition, describing them as future leaders and champions of the nation. General Owolabi said he was inspired by the large gathering of young athletes drawn from Command Secondary Schools across the state, adding that, “I do not just see students in jerseys; I see the next generation of leaders and champions who will carry the mantle of this great union.” He explained that the objective of the competition was not only to provide a platform for sporting excellence but also to identify raw talent, instill discipline, and strengthen the bond among students within the Nigerian Army education system. According to him, bringing together various Command Secondary Schools under the 81 Division for the competition was designed to foster unity and healthy rivalry that goes beyond school boundaries. The Army chief emphasized the critical role sports play in education, noting that athletic activities help to sharpen mental focus, build physical strength, and instill values that prepare students for future challenges. “Sports occupy a peculiar place in learning. It is a unique classroom where lessons are written in sweat rather than ink. The games sharpen mental focus, build physical fortitude, and instill a sense of purpose in the students,” he said. He urged the athletes to see the competition as an opportunity for personal development rather than just a quest for medals. “Compete not only for medals but for the man or woman you will become. When losing, do not despair but find that extra cheer that only comes from a heart that refuses to quit,” he advised. The Commander also charged officials to ensure fairness and professionalism throughout the event, while encouraging spectators to support the participants in the right spirit. “To the athletes, the stage is yours. This field is neutral. It respects only your efforts. Go out there and make us proud,” he added. Earlier, The Acting Director of Education Services at 81 Division of the Nigerian Army, Colonel O.A. Olubo, said the competition was designed to promote physical fitness, discipline and unity among students of Command Secondary Schools within the Division. She said: “It is my singular honor to welcome you to the 81 Division Inter-Command Secondary School Sports Competition 2026 with deep appreciation. This competition is an august sporting event designed to achieve a profound fusion of mind and body for the students.” The Acting Director emphasized that sports remain an important tool for developing leadership qualities and resilience among young people. “Sports is a unique platform where the abstract concepts of leadership, sacrifice, focus and other values can be fused together to become tangible realities in practice,” he said. According to him, bringing together various Command Schools for the competition was aimed at strengthening unity and healthy interaction among students across the Division. “In essence, bringing our various command schools together for this competition is a bid to build the bridge of unity among our students, transcending individual rivalries and reinforcing the togetherness of the command family,” Olugbo explained. He noted that beyond discovering the fastest athletes, the competition seeks to identify students who demonstrate integrity, humility and good sportsmanship.
81 Division Hosts Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition
