By Ahmed Ahmed 

The Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC) has increased funding for sports development in basic education from one percent to two percent of its Matching Grant Funds, reaffirming its commitment to holistic learning through physical education and character building.

This was announced by the Executive Secretary of UBEC, Mrs. Aisha Garba, at the opening of the Basic Education School Sports (BESS) Competition held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi, from 1st to 10th February, 2026. She was represented at the event by the Director, North East UBEC, Alhaji Abdullahi Jarma.

She described the BESS initiative as more than a sporting competition, noting that it was designed to identify and nurture young talents while instilling values of unity, resilience, teamwork, and discipline among pupils.

According to her, education is incomplete without sports, as physical development complements intellectual growth. 

She praised Bauchi State Government, the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), coaches, volunteers, and participating pupils for the successful hosting and enthusiastic participation in the games. 

She also encouraged sustained collaboration with partners and sponsors to further elevate the competition.

Mrs. Garba congratulated the Bauchi State Government and its people on the state’s 50th anniversary, commending Governor Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed for his leadership. 

In his welcome address, the Bauchi State Commissioner for Education, Dr. Lawan Riminzayam, described the second edition of the National BESS Games as a landmark event in Nigeria’s basic education history.

He emphasized the role of co-curricular activities in national development and assured participants from the 36 states and the FCT of Bauchi’s hospitality and peaceful environment.

Delivering a goodwill message, the President of the National Association of SUBEB Sports Officers’ Forum (NASSOF), Mr. Idepe Joseph, urged athletes to compete with fairness and discipline, stressing that sports build character as much as skill.

The event brought together pupils, educators, and sports administrators nationwide, reinforcing sports as a powerful tool for nation-building and youth development.