The University of Lagos Staff School held its 2026 Annual Inter-House Sports Competition on Thursday, February 26, 2026, turning the school field into a vibrant arena of colour, competition, and character building.
The event brought together pupils, parents, staff, alumni, and invited schools in a celebration that underscored the importance of sports in early childhood development.
A Platform for Excellence
Representing Professor Adebayo Oladipo, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Professor Liasu Adebayo Ogunkanmi described the competition as more than a sporting event.
According to him, inter-house sports cultivate resilience, discipline, courage, and the pursuit of excellence; qualities which are essential for both personal growth and national development.
“Every step forward is a victory,” he told the pupils, urging them to compete with passion, fairness, and integrity.
He praised staff of the school for their organisation; parents for their support; and sponsors for their generosity before officially declaring the games open.
Shaping Confident and Responsible Learners
In her address, the Headmistress, Mrs. Eunice Adedoyin Akinade highlighted the role of sports in shaping confident, disciplined, and team-oriented children. It was a message that resonated strongly with the celebration of the school’s 60th anniversary.
She expressed appreciation to the University Management, led by the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Folasade Ogunsola, OON, FAS; the Board Chairman, PTA executives, and other stakeholders for their continued support.
Chairman of the PTA, Dr. Folorunso Adebayo, commended the enthusiasm of pupils and encouraged them to strive for excellence while enjoying the experience.
Also speaking, Chairman of UNILAG Alumni Association, Lagos State Chapter, Hon. Owoeye Adedeji Adeyemo described the event as a celebration of unity, teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship.
He encouraged the pupils to learn the values of fair play and participation above winning. He also donated five standing fans to the school.
Competition Highlights and Results
Five houses: Oduduwa (Blue), Danfodio (Yellow), Obi (Purple), Emotan (Red), and Jaja (Green), competed in sprints, novelty races, ball-picking contests, and the crowd-favourite: elephant race.
Match Past Results
• 1st Place: Obi House (Purple)
• 2nd Place: Oduduwa House (Blue)
• 3rd Place: Jaja House (Green)
Overall Medal Table (Athletes’ Category)
• 1st Place: Jaja House (Green)
• 2nd Place: Emotan House (Red)
• 3rd Place: Oduduwa House (Blue)
Beyond Trophies
The event attracted dignitaries and representatives from neighbouring schools, including: UNILAG Women Society, Yaba College of Technology Staff School, FCET Staff School Akoka, and Oluwole Primary School, Akoka.
The 2026 UNILAG Staff School Inter-House Sports Competition once again demonstrated that sports remain a powerful tool for nurturing well-rounded learners who are prepared to excel both on and off the field of play.
Report: Oluwatoyin Ojo-Alo
Photograph: Ismlamiat Akanni
