GSS Gboko and Father O’Connell Win 26th MILO Central Conference Titles

The 26th edition of the MILO Basketball Championship concluded with the Central Conference regional finals, where Government Secondary School, Gboko, Benue State captured the girls’ title and Father O’Connell Science College, Niger State secured the boys’ title.

For 26 years MILO has promoted youth development through school sports, using basketball to foster discipline, teamwork, resilience and confidence among young people. The championship continues to offer students across Nigeria a chance to discover their potential, build character and strive for excellence both on and off the court.

This year, more than 13,000 schools applied nationwide, underscoring the event’s growth and relevance. At the Central Conference finals, seven schools vied for a spot at the National Finals. Government Secondary School, Gboko, defeated Nigeria Defence Academy Staff Secondary School, Kaduna State, 63–31 in the girls’ game, while Father O’Connell Science College edged Government Secondary School, Gwarinpa Life Camp, Abuja, 56–53 in the boys’ match.

Opening remarks were given by MILO Sports Marketing Manager Mrs. Funmilola Oyewole on behalf of Category Manager Mr. Gilbert Tweneboah‑Koduah. In his address, Mr. Tweneboah‑Koduah highlighted the championship’s role in encouraging young athletes to pursue excellence beyond the sport.

“Every game played at this championship reminds us of the courage, determination, and promise that exist in our young people. These students are not only competing for medals; they are learning to believe in themselves, to work as a team, and to rise above challenges. At MILO, we are proud to continue supporting a platform that helps young people turn their passion into purpose,” he said.

Friday Victoria Ada of Government Secondary School, Gboko, Benue State, was named Most Valuable Player in the girls’ category. Wearing jersey number 13, she scored 25 of her team’s 63 points, playing a pivotal role in their victory.

In the boys’ category, Idris Mohamed of Father O’Connell College, Niger State, earned Most Valuable Player honors. Wearing jersey number 5, he contributed 20 of his team’s 56 points.

The Central Conference is the second of four regional conferences in the 26th MILO Basketball Championship. With the Savannah and Central Conferences now concluded, the championship will move to the Atlantic Conference, where nine schools in each of the boys’ and girls’ categories will compete for a place in the National Finals.

At the Savannah Conference, Government Secondary School, Zing, Taraba State, won the girls’ title, while Family Support Programme School, Katsina State, took the boys’ title. Together with the Central Conference champions, they form part of the growing list of regional winners heading to the grand finale.

Dignitaries from FCT ministries, as well as representatives from NSSF, NCSF and FIBA, attended the event.

The Central Conference champions will advance to the National Finals, scheduled to be held in Lagos on July 2, 2026, where they will compete with other regional champions for the ultimate title.