NSSF and NOC train 150 teachers in Lagos

One hundred and fifty physical and health education teachers, plus games masters from public primary schools in Lagos State, are taking part in a two-day training program. This program is organized by the Nigeria School Sport Federation and the Nigeria Olympic Committee. They are getting support from Olympic Solidarity and partnering with the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board.

The training started on Wednesday at the LASUBEB Multipurpose Hall in Maryland. It aims to introduce the teachers to the International Olympic Committee’s Olympic Values Education Programme.

Sessions are being led by IOC-certified trainers, with Professor Clement Fasan in charge. Lagos is the fifth state to host this program after Plateau, Ogun, Bayelsa, and Kano states.

NSSF President Olabisi Joseph urged the teachers to use this chance to learn and unlearn. He wants them to effectively teach their pupils the values of excellence, respect, and friendship.

Kemi Obidahunsi, representing NOC President Engr. Habu Gumel, stressed the need to teach integrity and respect from the grassroots. She said, "OVEP is based on the Olympic philosophy that learning takes place through the balanced development of body and mind."

She added, "It adopts the Olympic values of excellence, respect, and friendship, encouraging individuals to strive for these in all areas of life."

Professor Fasan explained that the program aims to instill these values. It also helps teachers find and nurture sporting talents in their schools.

LASUBEB Executive Chairman, Dr Hakeem Babatunde Shittu, thanked NSSF and NOC for choosing Lagos as one of the host states. He said this initiative matches the state's goal of raising learners who are academically strong, morally good, and socially responsible.

Shittu noted, "OVEP is particularly significant because it combines sports with the timeless values of excellence, friendship, and respect." He added, "Through this partnership, we are strengthening teacher skills, creating ways to discover talent, and laying a foundation for future sporting success."

He encouraged the teachers to make the most of the training and promised LASUBEB’s ongoing support for teacher development and the overall growth of children.