King Amakree Academy of Rivers State and Government Secondary School (GSS), Gboko, Benue State, were crowned national champions for the first time after emerging victorious at the 26th MILO Basketball Championship National Finals in Lagos.
The finals, held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, featured the four conference champions alongside the two best-performing runners-up from across the country in a thrilling battle for national honours.
After an entertaining group stage, the competition culminated in two gripping finals that produced first-time champions in both the boys’ and girls’ categories.
In the girls’ final, GSS Gboko delivered a commanding performance to defeat multiple champions St. Jude’s Girls Secondary School, Amarata, Bayelsa State, 68-36, securing the school’s maiden national crown. Ada Friday, who wore jersey No. 6, was named the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP).
The boys’ final also produced a memorable upset as King Amakree Academy edged three-time national champions and defending title holders Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, 56-54 to lift the trophy for the first time. Godswill Mene, wearing jersey No. 8, earned the boys’ MVP award for his outstanding performances.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of Nestlé Nigeria Plc, Wassim ElHusseini, reaffirmed the company’s commitment to youth development through the championship.
“At Nestlé Nigeria, Creating Shared Value is at the heart of how we do business. We believe our success is closely connected to the well-being of the communities we serve. That is why we continue to invest in initiatives like the MILO Basketball Championship, creating opportunities for young people to realise their full potential.
“For 26 years, this championship has been about more than basketball. It has been a platform where young people learn discipline, teamwork, resilience and self-belief. These are qualities that not only make better athletes but also help shape responsible leaders and stronger communities,” he said.
Also speaking, MILO Category Lead, Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, described the emergence of two first-time champions as a testament to the competition’s mission of providing equal opportunities for young athletes.
“This year’s championship is a powerful reminder of what the MILO Basketball Championship stands for. At MILO, we believe every child has the potential to achieve something great when given the right support and opportunity.
“Seeing two schools become national champions for the first time shows that every participating team has the opportunity to succeed, regardless of where they come from or their history in the competition. It reinforces our commitment to providing a platform where young people can discover their potential, build character and realise their dreams through sport,” he said.
The championship also featured a wheelchair basketball exhibition involving young para-athletes, underscoring MILO’s commitment to inclusion and its belief in the potential of every child.
The victorious teams were presented with championship trophies, cash prizes, basketball kits and MILO products in recognition of their outstanding achievements.