King Amakree Academy, Obuama, Rivers, defeated Father O’Connel Science College, Minna, 56-54 to win the boys’ title at the 26th Nestlé Milo Secondary Schools Basketball Championship.
The final produced a thrilling contest, with both teams displaying exceptional skill, determination and resilience throughout the fiercely contested encounter.
King Amakree Academy edged the opening quarter 15-14, but defending champions Father O’Connel Science College responded strongly to seize control of the contest.
The Niger side dominated the second and third quarters, extending their advantage to 31-25 before leading 47-39 heading into the decisive final period.
Their disciplined defence, quick transitions and accurate three-point shooting kept the Rivers team under pressure for much of the game.
However, King Amakree Academy mounted a remarkable comeback in the fourth quarter with aggressive defending, improved ball movement and unwavering determination.
The Rivers boys forced the scores level at 54-54 with only two seconds remaining after sustained pressure unsettled their opponents.
A late foul handed King Amakree Academy two decisive free throws, which they converted calmly to seal a dramatic 56-54 victory.
The winning basket sparked wild celebrations among players and supporters inside the Indoor Sports Hall, bringing the championship to an unforgettable conclusion.
In the girls’ final, Government Secondary School, Gboko, Benue, overwhelmed seven-time champions St. Judes Girls Secondary School, Amarata, Bayelsa, 68-36.
The Benue girls dominated from start to finish, impressing with excellent teamwork, discipline and attacking quality throughout the one-sided championship decider.
Davidhall International College, Ikoyi, Lagos, claimed third place in the boys’ competition after defeating Urhobo College, Effurun, Delta, 51-43.
Ado Grammar School, Ekiti State, secured third place in the girls’ event with a 40-30 victory over Urhobo College, Effurun, Delta.
The champions received ₦3 million, basketballs and other sporting equipment, while runners-up earned ₦2 million alongside sports gear and Nestlé Milo gift items.
Third-place finishers received ₦1.5 million, sporting equipment and Nestlé Milo products in recognition of their performances.
President of the Nigeria School Sports Federation, Mrs Olabisi Joseph, praised the championship for combining education with sports development.
“It is an awesome platform that encourages education and sports to work together in developing young people,” she said.
Joseph said former Nigeria international basketball player, Olumide Oyedeji, inspired participants by highlighting the importance of education alongside sporting excellence.
“We also had a cultural exhibition to educate and entertain the youths on the importance of understanding their culture and dance,” she added.
She said the competition was helping to produce well-rounded students who excel academically while developing their sporting talents.
“We are excited about this year’s activities because they allow young people to interact and build friendships beyond their schools,” Joseph said.
She commended Nestlé Milo for its sustained commitment to grassroots sports development, adding, “It has been a successful edition, and we look forward to many more years ahead.”
