The journey to the 26th MILO Basketball Championship National Finals reached a defining moment with the conclusion of the Western Conference — the fourth and final regional qualifier of this year’s tournament.
At the end of an intense and highly competitive conference, Ado Grammar School, Ekiti State, and Davidhall International College, Lagos State, emerged champions in the girls’ and boys’ categories respectively, clinching the last available slots for the National Finals.
For over two decades, MILO, under Nestlé Nigeria Plc, has sustained its commitment to youth development through school sports. Now in its 26th year, the championship continues to serve as a powerful platform for instilling discipline, teamwork, resilience, and confidence in young Nigerians. This year alone, more than 13,000 schools nationwide applied to participate — a testament to the tournament’s growing influence and reach.
Nine schools battled fiercely in each category for the final qualification spots, delivering high-energy performances throughout the conference.
In the girls’ final, Ado Grammar School edged past Lanreleke Academy, Osun State, in a tightly contested match, securing a 53–49 victory. The win marks a historic milestone for the Ekiti-based school, as it qualifies for the National Finals for the very first time.
The boys’ final delivered even more drama, with Davidhall International College overcoming God’s Blessings Comprehensive College, Oyo State, in a nail-biting encounter. The Lagos team sealed an 82–81 victory, confirming their place among the nation’s elite school teams.
Standout performances defined the finals, with two players earning Most Valuable Player (MVP) honours:
Miracle Akinola (Ado Grammar School) dominated the girls’ game, scoring 22 points — nearly half of her team’s total.
Emmanuel Saleh (Davidhall International College) led the boys with 19 crucial points, playing a decisive role in his team’s narrow victory.
In his opening address, Mr. Gilbert Tweneboah-Koduah, Category Manager for MILO at Nestlé Nigeria Plc, emphasized the brand’s long-standing vision:
> “Sport remains one of the most powerful tools for shaping character and building future leaders. Through the Basketball Championship, we continue to provide young people with opportunities to develop discipline, resilience, teamwork, and determination — qualities that extend far beyond the court.”
Nationwide Competition Reaches Final Stage
The Western Conference concludes a nationwide series of regional qualifiers:
Savannah Conference:
Girls: Government Secondary School, Zing (Taraba State)
Boys: Family Support Programme Secondary School (Katsina State)
Central Conference:
Girls: Government Secondary School, Gboko (Benue State)
Boys: Father O’Connell Science College (Niger State)
Atlantic Conference:
Girls: St. Jude Girls Secondary School (Bayelsa State)
Boys: King Amakree Academy (Rivers State)
With all regional champions now confirmed, the stage is fully set for the National Finals, scheduled for July 2, 2026, where Nigeria’s most promising young basketball talents will compete for ultimate glory.
