The 81 Division Nigerian Army on Thursday concluded its Inter-Command Secondary Schools Sports Competition 2026 with a closing ceremony at the Gen. Tukur Yusuf Buratai Sports Complex, TA Lagbaja Cantonment, Ikeja.
The event celebrated the achievements of participating students while reinforcing discipline, physical fitness, and unity across command schools.
Brigadier General Ayokunle Olufemi Owolabi, Commander of 9 Brigade, presided over the ceremony and commended the young athletes for their dedication and sportsmanship.
“It is with profound honor that I stand before you at this closing ceremony,” Brig. Gen. Owolabi said. “This competition showcases the Nigerian Army’s legacy of physical fitness, mental toughness, and unbreakable spirit.
Here, our students have competed not only for medals but for the men and women they aspire to become.”
He urged participants to carry the lessons of focus, perseverance, and discipline into their everyday lives: “Success is earned through vigorous training and effort.
Compete with the ferocity of a warrior and the honor of a diplomat. When losing, do not despair; find the extra cheer that comes from a heart that refuses to quit.”
Brig. Gen. Owolabi also called on officials to maintain fairness and spectators to cheer with “decorated spirit,” adding,
“This field respects only your efforts. Go out there and make us proud.”
The ceremony highlighted the discovery of raw talent, the fostering of unity, and the celebration of healthy rivalry among the command secondary schools under the 81 Division.
