The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through sports, describing athletics and physical education as vital tools for building discipline, resilience, and teamwork among young Nigerians. This assurance was given by the Edo State Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Hon. Charity Amayaenvbo, during the 16th Annual Inter-House Sports Competition of Command Children School, Benin, held on Thursday, March 5, 2026, at the Headquarters 4 Brigade Nigerian Army Sports Ground.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, Amayaenvbo commended the Nigerian Army and the school’s management for using sports as a platform to nurture leadership and character among pupils. According to him, sporting competitions go beyond winning medals and trophies, stressing that they instill critical life values in children.
“Sport competitions like this are not just about winning medals or trophies; they are about discipline, teamwork, courage, resilience and leadership — values that the Nigerian Army represents and values every young person should learn,” he said.
The commissioner noted that the impressive performances by the pupils reflected the importance of teamwork, hard work, and dedication — qualities the Edo State Government hopes to cultivate in young people across the state. He added that the state government would continue to partner with schools and organizations promoting youth engagement through sports and other constructive initiatives.
“Edo State Government is proud to partner with you in youth mobilisation through sports as we continue to mould our children and imbue them with the spirit of discipline and hard work,” he added.
Earlier, the Commander of 4 Brigade Nigerian Army, Brigadier General Ahmed Balogun, described the annual inter-house sports competition as a long-standing tradition within command schools aimed at promoting physical fitness, teamwork, and healthy competition among pupils. Balogun noted that the event aligns with the command philosophy of the Chief of Army Staff, which emphasizes training and capacity development.
“Training and retraining remain a viable tool for enhancing fitness and relevance in any endeavour, especially in the lives of our young children,” he stated.
The brigade commander praised the pupils for demonstrating discipline, determination, and strong sportsmanship throughout the competition.
One of the pupils, 10-year-old Oluwaseyi Adewale from Green House, shared her experience: “I was so happy to win the 100m race! It was tough, but I kept pushing and it paid off. I love sports because it teaches me to be brave and work with my friends.”
The event featured several track and field activities, including 200 metres, 100 metres, and 50 metres races for senior, junior, and nursery categories. At the end of the keenly contested competition, Green House emerged overall winner, Purple House secured second place, while Blue House finished third. Cash prizes were presented to the winning houses by the Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Charity Amayaenvbo, and the Proprietor of Valley Stream British School, Chief Godday Erewa, in recognition of the pupils’ outstanding performances.
The annual sports event attracted pupils, parents, teachers, and military personnel who gathered to celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship and youth development.
