In a demonstration of their commitment to raising well-rounded learners, Springfield Private School and Bosede Idehen International Academy have successfully concluded the maiden edition of the Bosede Idehen 5-Aside Football Competition, an inter-school football tournament aimed at discovering young talents, promoting sportsmanship, and fostering unity among schools within the Alimosho area of Lagos State.
The tournament, which commenced on March 6, 2026, and concluded on April 17, 2026, attracted six schools from across Alimosho. Participating schools included Bosede Idehen International Academy, Parcel Manuel School, Phidel School, God’s Merit School, Silverson School, and Sapphire Stones School.
Throughout the six-week competition, students displayed remarkable football skills, discipline, teamwork, and resilience, creating an atmosphere of healthy competition while strengthening relationships among participating schools.
As part of efforts to encourage excellence and reward outstanding performance, the organisers announced cash prizes for the teams that emerged in first, second, and third positions at the end of the tournament.
Speaking during the closing ceremony, the Director of Bosede Idehen International Academy, Mrs. Idehen Ovabor, described the competition as an initiative designed to complement classroom learning with sports and other extracurricular activities.
She explained that the school’s blended Nigerian and American curriculum places equal emphasis on academic achievement and the overall development of every learner.
According to her, education should not be limited to classroom instruction but should also create opportunities for students to discover and develop their God-given talents.
“At Bosede Idehen International Academy, we believe that while our learners are expected to study hard, they should also have the opportunity to play hard. Education is about developing the total child, and sports remain an important part of that process.”
Mrs. Ovabor noted that although many students aspire to become doctors, lawyers, engineers, and other professionals, others possess exceptional talents in sports and different career fields that deserve equal encouragement.
She stressed that regardless of the career path learners eventually choose, acquiring quality education remains indispensable.
“Not every child will become a doctor or a lawyer, and that is perfectly fine. Some will excel in sports and other professions. However, every learner must have a solid educational foundation. They should pursue their passion while attaining the necessary academic qualifications because talent alone is not enough. Education shapes character, broadens perspective, and prepares them for success in every aspect of life.”
The educationist also applauded members of staff who worked tirelessly behind the scenes to ensure the success of the competition.
She described their dedication and teamwork as instrumental to the smooth organisation of the tournament and expressed optimism that future editions would attract even greater participation from schools across Lagos State.
“I sincerely commend every member of staff who contributed to making this competition a huge success. They have demonstrated commitment, professionalism, and teamwork. This is just the beginning, and we are confident that future editions will be bigger, better, and even more impactful.”
Parents, teachers, students, and supporters who attended the tournament praised the initiative, describing it as a timely platform for identifying young football talents while encouraging discipline, teamwork, and healthy competition among schoolchildren.
The successful conclusion of the Bosede Idehen 5-Aside Football Competition further underscores Springfield Private School and Bosede Idehen International Academy’s dedication to nurturing learners who excel academically, socially, and physically. The organisers expressed their commitment to sustaining the competition as an annual event that will continue to inspire excellence, strengthen inter-school relationships, and contribute to grassroots sports development within Alimosho and beyond.
