Lagos State has emerged overall champion of the Year 2025 Basic Education School Sports (BESS) Competition, held at Yaba Technical College Sports Complex.
The competition featured participants from the six South-Western states of Nigeria culminated a vibrant grand finale on Thursday, June 19, 2025, brought together talented learners in a spirited display of athleticism, teamwork and unity.
The Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) successfully hosted the final leg of the zonal tournament, which had earlier progressed through several preliminary stages across the region.
Pupils from Lagos, Ondo, Ekiti, Osun, Oyo, and Ogun States competed in various sporting activities including track and field events, all designed to enhance physical development, promote healthy competition, and foster integration among learners.
At the end of the thrilling finale, Lagos State Team emerged first overall, winning a total of 19 medals made up of 9 gold, 5 silver, and 5 bronze a performance that not only demonstrated athletic superiority but also reinforced the state’s ongoing commitment to youth development through sports.
Ondo State also recorded a strong showing, equaling Lagos in total medal count with 19 medals, but settling for second place with 7 gold, 7 silver, and 5 bronze, based on the gold medal ranking system.
Ekiti State finished in third place with a commendable 16 medals: 5 gold, 5 silver, and 6 bronze.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, commended the learners for their exceptional performance and resilience throughout the competition.
He emphasized that the competition was more than just a contest of strength and speed, but also a platform to cultivate essential values in the children.
“This competition is not just about winning medals, it is about nurturing values such as teamwork, perseverance, and leadership in our children. As a State, we are committed to the rounded development of every child in the basic education system.
Sports is an integral part of that journey, and I am proud of what our children have accomplished here today. Lagos State is not just raising champions on the track, but also in character and learning,” he said.
Dr. Shittu further appreciated the support of the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), the South-West BESS Technical Committee, as well as the coaches and educators whose dedication contributed to the successful hosting of the event.
In his closing remarks, the Honourable Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun, applauded LASUBEB for the seamless coordination and execution of the zonal finals.
He praised the participating states for their sportsmanship and expressed optimism that the event will continue to inspire educational and athletic excellence
