Last Updated on April 2, 2025 by Olasunkanmi Olajide
By Olasunkanmi Olajide & Femi Dansu
The 7th Biennial Inter-house Sports Competition of the Federal University of Agriculture, Abeokuta International School (FUNIS) was more than just a contest for medals; it was a platform for holistic development, fostering physical fitness, teamwork, discipline, and resilience among students. As an essential extracurricular activity, the competition aimed to nurture well-rounded individuals by instilling a sense of responsibility, sportsmanship, and excellence beyond the classroom.
Held today, March 28, 2025, at the FUNAAB Staff School Sports Field, the event provided students with an avenue to showcase their athletic prowess, well-coordinated march past, strengthen interpersonal relationships, and cultivate leadership skills crucial for their future endeavours.
At the competition, Gold House secured the overall first position, clinching victory with 12 gold, 6 silver, and 10 bronze medals.
Green House finished in second place with 7 gold, 16 silver, and 4 bronze medals, while Blue House took third place with 7 gold, 8 silver, and 12 bronze medals.
In his welcome address, the Principal of FUNIS, Mr. Olusola Ilori, emphasised the importance of the competition in showcasing students’ talents beyond the classroom. He highlighted the school’s commitment to identifying and nurturing sporting potential among students, fostering their overall development.
Mr. Ilori encouraged the athletes to compete with enthusiasm and dedication, expressing appreciation to parents for their support in providing colourful sportswear for the students.
Speaking on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Babatunde Kehinde, the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic), Prof. Olukayode Akinyemi, noted that the 7th edition of the event held special significance, as the number seven symbolises perfection. He urged students to embrace the spirit of competition, sportsmanship, and teamwork, rather than focusing solely on winning. Prof. Akinyemi, also the Chairman, FUNAAB Schools Management Board, officially declared the event open on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor.
The Chairman of the occasion and FUNAAB alumnus, Mr. Lekan Adebote, pledged to support promising athletes, stating that his team was prepared to sponsor outstanding sports talents up to the international level. He announced that Isola Nimotallah had been selected for specialised training due to her exceptional performance.
At the conclusion of the event, Isola Nimotallah of Gold House was named Best Female Athlete, while David Olaleye of Green House emerged as Best Male Athlete. Trophies were presented to winners, with the Vice-Chancellor commending the officials and athletes for their efforts and encouraging them to continue striving for excellence.
Several invited schools participated in the event, including Federal College of Education Model Secondary School, Paragon International Group of Schools, Aminat International College, TAIDOB College, Deeper Life High School, Faith Heritage College, Adeline Ogunlade Memorial Home Secondary School, Emmanuel College, Foursquare Secondary School, and Day Spring Model College, all from Abeokuta.
Dignitaries in attendance included the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Development), Prof. Kola Adebayo; Registrar, Dr. Titus Adeniyi; Representative of the Bursar, Mrs. Margaret Omisope; Dean, Student Affairs, Prof. Festus Adeosun; Head, NHIA, Dr. Oludayo Oduwole; Director, Directorate of Sports, Dr. Samuel Olabanji; Ag. Director, Health Services, Dr. Oluseyi Anjorin; Prof. James Oguntuase; the Pioneer Principal of FUNIS, Mrs. Adeola Olumide; SSANU-FUNAAB Chairman, Mr. Olurotimi Fasunwon, and the CEO, Zylus Mr. Hafeez Adeleke.
Also present were several staff members of FUNIS and FUNAAB, including many parents and special guests.
