By Nkechi Eze
Command Day Secondary School, Abuja, recently became a hub of colour, energy and competitive spirit as it hosted its 17th Annual Inter-House Sports Competition, showcasing the athletic talents of its students and reaffirming the Nigerian Army’s enduring commitment to nurturing physically fit, disciplined and leadership-oriented young Nigerians.
The school grounds were transformed into a vibrant sporting arena, with students competing in a wide range of track and field events amid loud cheers from parents, teachers and senior military officers who graced the occasion. The atmosphere reflected a blend of excitement, healthy rivalry and collective pride in youthful excellence.
The Special Guest of Honour, Director of Leadership Development Institution at the Nigerian Army Resource Centre, Brigadier General Ogheneyerowo Charles, described the competition as a powerful demonstration of the Nigerian Army’s long-standing investment in youth development through education and sports. He noted that exposing young people to organised sporting activities from an early age helps to build confidence, discipline, resilience and leadership capacity.
Drawing from his personal journey, Brigadier General Ogheneyerowo recalled his days as a student-athlete at Army Children School, Keffi, stating that sports played a defining role in shaping his character and professional outlook. He commended the school management for sustaining a culture that harmoniously blends academic excellence with physical development, stressing that such balance is essential for national growth and stability.
According to him, sports development remains a central pillar of the Nigerian Army’s educational philosophy, adding that the Army has continued to provide facilities, resources and institutional support to Command Schools to strengthen sporting programmes and improve overall student welfare.
Declaring the competition open, the Commandant of Command Day Secondary School, Abuja, Lieutenant Colonel Ogheneovie Akise said the annual inter-house sports event is designed to foster unity, teamwork and healthy competition among students. He explained that beyond the quest for medals and trophies, the competition serves as a platform for character building, discipline and respect for rules.
Lieutenant Colonel Akise urged students to compete fairly and demonstrate the values of honour and integrity, noting that every participant is a winner for having the courage and determination to take part. He also expressed appreciation to teachers, staff, soldiers, organisers and sponsors for their collective efforts in ensuring 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 objective of promoting unity, physical fitness and talent development among young Nigerians. He described the event as well organised, transparent and competitive, praising the high level of enthusiasm displayed by both participants and spectators.
Colonel Isah noted that such sporting programmes provide a valuable avenue for identifying and nurturing young talents, while also helping students maintain mental and physical balance. He assured that the Nigerian Army would continue to strengthen similar initiatives across all Army-owned schools nationwide.
The 17th Inter-House Sports Competition concluded on a high note, marked by displays of sportsmanship, camaraderie and mutual respect, further reinforcing Command Day Secondary School Abuja’s reputation as an institution committed to producing disciplined, confident and well-rounded future leaders.
