Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State, and Government Secondary School (GSS) Karu, Federal Capital Territory (FCT), have been crowned national champions at the 25th MILO Basketball Championship, held at the Indoor Sports Hall of the National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
The Silver Jubilee Edition of the championship concluded with excitement and celebration, marking a significant milestone in the history of grassroots sports development in Nigeria. The competition featured top-performing secondary school basketball teams from across the country in a showcase of skill, discipline, and youth empowerment.
In a tightly contested male category final, Father O’Connell Science College clinched a narrow 66–64 victory over Bishop Dimeari Grammar School, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, earning their third national title and solidifying their legacy as one of the tournament’s most successful teams.
On the female side, Government Secondary School, Karu, delivered a dominant performance, defeating Lanreleke Sports Academy, Ile-Ogbo, Osun State, 55–42. The triumph was especially emotional for GSS Karu, who had previously finished as runners-up on three occasions. This marks their first-ever national title, capping off a long journey of persistence and progress.
Speaking on behalf of Nestlé Nigeria Plc’s Managing Director and CEO, Wassim El-Husseini, the Commercial Manager, Boladale Odunlami, commended the young athletes for their outstanding performances and hailed the commitment of their coaches and schools. He reiterated Nestlé’s long-standing purpose behind the MILO Basketball Championship.
“For 25 years, we’ve stayed true to our belief in growing champions through sport. This platform has supported hundreds of thousands of young athletes, some of whom have reached global heights,” he said, citing the success stories of Rueben Abuchi—an NCAA National Champion at the University of Florida—and Murjanatu Musa, recently drafted into the WNBA and now playing for the Phoenix Mercury.
“It’s not just about creating stars on the court—it’s about building champions in life. That’s why we remain committed, not just as sponsors, but as partners in purpose,” he added.
Category Manager for Beverages, Ifeanyichukwu Orabuche, described the championship as a powerful symbol of youth transformation, saying, “This platform empowers boys and girls across Nigeria to discover their strength, showcase their talent, and unlock their full potential. We’re celebrating 25 years of purpose and impact—every child on that court is building discipline, resilience, and the mindset to win in life.”
As part of its inclusive outlook, the 2025 edition also featured a special exhibition game for individuals with disabilities—demonstrating Nestlé Nigeria’s commitment to inclusivity and providing equal opportunities for all.
Winning teams received trophies, full basketball kits, cash rewards, and MILO products. Their victories have now earned them a place in the history of Nigeria’s biggest grassroots basketball tournament, which has reached over 13,000 schools nationwide this year alone.
As the tournament marks its 25th anniversary, the MILO Basketball Championship continues to stand as a beacon of Nestlé Nigeria’s dedication to developing talent, encouraging healthy lifestyles, and inspiring future champions—on and off the court.