Managing Director of Nigeria Railway Corporation (NRC), Kayode Opeifa, sponsor of the Lagos State Secondary School Handball Championship, has praised the success of the Opeifa Cup, which ended on Friday.
The competition started from October 27 to 31 at Mobolaji Johnson Sports Centre, Yaba, with over 100 schools participating.
Opeifa said that the goal is to groom future champions who will return Nigeria to the Olympics.
He said Nigeria once led African handball, but the country has since lost ground and must rebuild its strength.
“We must develop young talent early. We have fallen from grace and must correct it through proper investment and passion.
“We organise this event to keep youths engaged and help them believe in a promising future in handball,” he said.
Opeifa, who was a former Lagos State Commissioner for Transport said he was impressed by the talent on display and believes several players can reach elite international level.
Ariyo Ajibola, Head Coach of United Christian Secondary School, said he was delighted with his team’s performance after reaching the medal table.
He described the competition as valuable exposure, noting that the pupils love the game and can excel with proper support.
Ajibola celebrated finally winning gold in the senior girls’ category after previous final defeats, calling it a wonderful achievement.
He added that the school will continue nurturing young talent capable of competing internationally.
In the Male Senior final, Aje Senior Secondary School beat Whitsand Senior School, Lekki, 16-9.
United Christian Senior School edged Jagunmolu Senior Girls School on penalties after a 2-2 draw.
Government College Senior Secondary School claimed third place in the Male Senior Category with an 8-7 win over Lagos City Senior Secondary School.
In the Male Junior final, Aje Junior Secondary School defeated Whitsand Junior School 8-3 to continue their dominance.
Herbert Macaulay Junior Girls beat Igbobi Junior Girls School 7-6 in the Female Junior final.
Ikeja Junior High School secured third place in the Male Junior Category with a 3-2 win over Ijaiye Junior School.
Government College Agege won third place in the Female Junior Category with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over United Christian Junior Girls. (NAN)
