The Secretary General of the National Collegiate Sports Foundation (NCSF), Mr. Lanre Balogun, has been honoured with a Special Recognition Award by Nestlé Nigeria in appreciation of his contributions to youth and school sports development.
The award was presented by MILO Sports Marketing Manager, Mrs. Funmilola Oyewole, during the press conference for the 26th edition of the Milo Basketball Championship held on Wednesday.
Receiving the award, Balogun expressed gratitude to Nestlé Nigeria for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to the growth of sports in the country.
“Thank you, Nestlé PLC. As a matter of fact, I believe in hard work. I don’t rest. I like to work. Thank you so much,” Balogun said.
The NCSF Secretary General praised Nestlé Nigeria for its consistent support of grassroots sports through the Milo Basketball Championship, which has become one of the most successful school sports competitions in the country.
“The National Collegiate Sports Foundation deeply appreciates the unwavering commitment of our sponsors, Nestlé Nigeria PLC,” he said.
He also commended the efforts of technical officials, administrators, state coordinators, coaches, teachers and school authorities whose collaboration has contributed to the success and growth of the championship over the years.
According to Balogun, the tournament has become a platform that not only discovers talents but also equips young athletes with valuable life skills.
“To our youth athletes, remember that you are not just here to compete. You are here to represent the future. Every pass, every play and every decision reflects your school, your coaches, your state and your family,” he said.
He encouraged participants to make the most of the opportunity provided by the championship and use the experience to build confidence, character and leadership qualities that will serve them beyond sports.
Balogun also challenged technical and administrative officials to maintain professionalism and integrity throughout the competition to ensure fair and memorable national finals.
Addressing the finalists, he urged them to compete with respect and sportsmanship.
“Play hard, play fair and abide by the rules of the competition. The greatest reward in life is not only the trophy but the character and values you display throughout the journey,” he said.
The sports administrator reserved special praise for Nestlé Nigeria, noting that the company’s support for more than 26 years has helped thousands of young Nigerians discover their talents and pursue their dreams through sports.
“Your commitment has given thousands of young Nigerians a stage to showcase their talents, build confidence and dream bigger. MILO remains the energy food drink of champions,” he said.
Balogun further highlighted the importance of inclusivity in sports, stressing that opportunities should be available to all athletes, including those living with disabilities.
“We will continue to partner with relevant organisations to showcase talent because there is ability in disability,” he added.
The 26th Milo Basketball Championship will feature 12 schools from across Nigeria competing at the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, as teams battle for national honours in the boys’ and girls’ categories.