2 hours ago
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IBADAN – The General Officer Commanding (GOC) of 2 Division Nigerian Army Headquarters, Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Odogbo Barrack, Ojoo Ibadan, Major General Obinna Onubogu has on Tuesday described the maiden edition of the 2 Div Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition as a morale booster for soldiers and officers of the Command.
While declaring open the three days sporting competition which was held at the Major General JM Inienger Sports Complex of Adekunle Fajuyi Cantonment, Major General Onubogu maintained that the soldiers and officers that are in various operation environments across the country who have their children within the area of responsibility of the Command’s Secondary Schools will be highly motivated with the launch of the 2 Division Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition.
Onubogu noted that the Chief of Army staff in his philosophy of Command has stressed on the need to motivate the troops, which entails the need to impact training.
Onubogu in his address emphasized that the 2 Division Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition is one of the means to make sure that the troops are well motivated.
While highlighting the importance of the event to the operation of Nigerian Army, the GOC said, “Sports is an avenue through which we use to elevate our children and also give them the opportunity to express themselves through physical activities and for us in Nigerian Army the education of our children is very vital to us, and as such they’re well-being is very important to our soldiers who are their parents and this also goes to some of their parents that are civilians, while these soldiers were on duties they want to be ensure that their children are well taken care of, that they’re getting quality education from our Command Secondary Schools, that is what we are trying to do here today.
“We want to be ensured that we give these soldiers and officers who are serving their father’s land in different ways across various operations environment in the country that satisfaction and that confidence that the children they have left in the care of Nigerian Army are safe and that they’re engaging in meaningful endeavors through sports.
“The purpose of this Sports Competition is to bring students of CSS together to assist them develop team spirit, competitiveness, unity and the opportunity to interact with themselves in the spirit of sportsmanship.
“This is hinged on one of the pillars of the COAS Command Philosophy which aims at instilling quality educations across the primary, secondary and tertiary institution of the Nigerian Army towards motivating and ensuring troops are ready for combat in all operational environments.
“Sports play a pivotal role in the development of young people. It should not be seen as merely games; but sports is a fundamental part of education and personal growth. Consequently, engaging in sports teaches valuable life skills such as leadership, resilience, and teamwork.
“These qualities are essential not just on the field but also in every aspect of life. Additionally, in a world that often presents challenges and distractions, sports provide our youth with a constructive outlet for their energy and creativity. Sports encourages physical fitness, fosters social connections among peers and builds friendships that can last a lifetime.
“On assumption of command at this Division, I visited some CSS and it occurred to me that while some schools took sports seriously others did not. This resulted in my resolve to bring back this type of competition to ensure that Commands encourage students to strive for excellence through sports. This idea was raised with the NAEC who keyed into the idea and gave it their blessing and support. It was sequel to this, that I approved the conduct of the 2 Div Inter-Command Sports Competition 2025.
“As we gather here today, let us remember that competition is not solely about winning or losing; it is about striving for excellence and pushing our limits. Whether you leave this competition with a medal or not, you are all champions for having the courage to compete.
“Remember that every race run, every point scored, and every game played contributes to your personal development and character building. I therefore enjoin all of you the participants at this Competition to make the most of this rare opportunity in improving your capacity.
“As we embark on this exciting season of sports and competitions, I urge each of you athletes, coaches, and supporters to embody the values of sportsmanship: respect for your opponents, humility in victory, and grace in defeat. Celebrate each other’s achievements and encourage one another to strive for greatness.
“I will not end this remarks, without appreciating the COAS for his tremendous support. I would also like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the CC Edn, our guests, organizers, coaches, parents, and volunteers who have worked tirelessly to make this event possible. Your dedication has not gone unnoticed. Let us make this competition a memorable one filled with joy, excitement, and inspiration.
“On this note, I hereby declare the 2 Div Inter Command Sports Competition 2025 open,” Onubogu said.
The participants that converged for the 2 Division Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition 2025 include, Command Secondary School Apata, Ibadan; Command Secondary School Mokola, Ibadan; Command Secondary School Shaki, Command Secondary School Ede; Command Secondary School Isan Ekiti; Command Secondary School Ijebu – Ode; Command Secondary School Akure while the Command Secondary School Odogbo was on ground as host.
Some of the sporting activities highlighted for the event are March Pass, javelin, table tennis, football, basketball, volleyball, among others.
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