By Ado Salisu
Ruby House emerged overall winner at Benford International School Inter-House Sports and facilities launch in Abuja, titled “Play, Swim and Grow Initiative”, showcasing talent and grassroots sports development.
Chairman, Board of Directors, Benaoyagha Okoyen, said the event highlighted the importance of sports in total child development.
Okoyen expressed satisfaction with participation, noting that pupils, parents, and guests turned out massively despite other engagements.
“We are happy with the turnout and participation. Sports remain essential for children’s physical fitness, teamwork, and leadership development,” he said.
He emphasised the need to promote grassroots sports and early talent discovery among young Nigerians.
“This is about catching them young. What we saw today shows great potential in football and other sports,” he said.
Okoyen said the “Play, Swim and Grow Initiative 2026” was launched to improve sports infrastructure in the school.
“The project focuses on building modern play equipment and a swimming pool to enhance safety and development,” he said.
He called on individuals and organisations to support sports development through partnerships and donations.
Okoyen also advocated collaboration among private schools to organise more inter-school sporting competitions.
“We invited many schools, and this is a model we want to expand to encourage healthy competition,” he said.
He appreciated guests and participants, noting their support contributed to the event’s success.
The event held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium attracted over 2,000 participants.
Ruby House scored 189.2 points to emerge first, ahead of Sapphire House with 187.2 points.
Zircon House finished third with 168.2 points, while Moisonite placed fourth with 167.2 points.
Events featured included football, basketball, volleyball, table-tennis, badminton, shot put, discus, javeline, athletics, relays, and novelty races.
Other events include march past, tug of war, callisthenics/mass drill display, lightning of the sports torch, as well as exciting musical performances and dance displays.
Sapphire House won both the football and March past competitions at the event.
The Proprietress, Beatrice Okoyen, described the event as a celebration of teamwork and sportsmanship.
“This event reflects our commitment to holistic education and development of our pupils,” she said.
She urged students to compete fairly and value participation alongside victory.
“We are also raising funds to provide quality sports facilities for our students,” she added.
PTA Chairperson, Benford Family Forum, Barr. (Mrs) Patricia Eric Samuel said the initiative would transform sports development in the school.
“The Play, Swim and Grow Initiative will provide world-class facilities for our children’s growth and well-being,” she said.
She called on parents and stakeholders to contribute towards the N250 million project.
“Your support will create lasting impact and opportunities for every child,” she said.
Special Guest of Honour, Agbedi Yeitiemone Frederick, PhD (Olotu 1 of Iduwini Clan) and member representing Sagbama/Ekeremor Federal Constituency, Bayelsa State commended the school’s vision and investment in sports infrastructure.
“It is commendable to see a school prioritising sports as part of total education,” he said.
Frederick said sports help instil discipline, resilience, and leadership qualities in young people.
“These facilities will help raise confident and well-rounded individuals for the future,” he said.
He formally declared the competition and project launch open, wishing all participants success.
Other guests at the event were Amb. Phillips, Mr. Obinna Njokwu, Dr. Rose Oriarian-Anthony, Dr. Fortunate Fiberesima, the former Chief Physician to ex-President Goodluck Jonathan and former CEO of the State House Medical Centre, amongst others.