Lagos Hosts 2025 South-West Basic Education Sports Competition
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB), has officially kicked off the 2025 edition of the South-West Basic Education Schools Sports (BESS) Competition. The announcement was made during a press conference on Monday at LASUBEB’s head office in Maryland, Lagos.
Speaking at the event, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, explained that the BESS Competition is a joint effort by the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEBs), and the Nigeria School Sports Federation (NSSF).
Dr. Shittu said, “We’re proud to host pupils and officials from the six South-West states—Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ekiti, and Ondo. Over 370 pupils will compete in various events including track and field, football, and board games.”
He emphasized that the competition is more than just sports—it’s a platform to nurture young talent, promote teamwork and discipline, and encourage healthy rivalry. While the focus is currently on public schools, plans are underway to include private schools in future editions.
Dr. Shittu assured that all participants would be provided with safe and adequate accommodation and that security measures are in place. He praised the strong partnership between UBEC, SUBEBs, and the NSSF, which continues to support the development of well-rounded learners. He also expressed pride that Lagos is hosting the competition for the second time.
Also speaking at the event, Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Mr. Jamiu Tolani Alli-Balogun, highlighted how important sports are to a child’s overall development—mentally, physically, emotionally, and socially.
He said the Lagos State Government has now made physical and health education a core subject, integrating sports fully into the school curriculum. “Sport is no longer treated as an extracurricular activity—it’s a key part of our education system,” he added.
Mr. Alli-Balogun encouraged pupils to approach the competition with sportsmanship, teamwork, fairness, and excellence. He also appreciated the efforts of UBEC officials, Sports Desk Officers, and education stakeholders across the South-West for their commitment to grassroots sports.
Competition Schedule:
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June 17–18: Football and board games at CMS Grammar School, Bariga
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June 18: Track and field events at Agege Stadium
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June 19: Grand finale (Football Final) at Yaba College of Technology Sports Ground
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