In a moment of pride and relief, the Rivers State government has commended the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) for successfully staging its 2025 Sports Carnival in Port Harcourt, defying fears fueled by recent unrest and a declared state of emergency in the state.
Speaking at the colorful closing ceremony held at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium on Elekahia Road, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Prof. Ibibia Worika, conveyed the joy and appreciation of the state’s interim government, led by Sole Administrator Ibok Ekwe Ibas. Worika, himself an alumnus of Federal Government College, Port Harcourt, praised USOSA for its courage and resilience in proceeding with the event.
“Apart from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), the Federal Government College system is one of the strongest mediums through which Nigerians from all parts of the country meet, bond, and continue to build relationships after graduation. The Unity School dream has indeed been achieved,” Worika said.
The USOSA Sports Carnival, which attracted over 32 alumni associations from Unity Schools nationwide, witnessed competitions across more than 30 sporting events, including athletics, table sports, and golf. The carnival was held over two days — the first time the event was extended to accommodate the growing number of participants.
In his earlier remarks during a courtesy visit by USOSA members, Worika emphasized the vital role of sports in fostering peace, unity, and national development. He assured the delegation of the Rivers government’s commitment to supporting educational and sports initiatives that promote social cohesion.
“You are doing remarkable work. We encourage other alumni and schools to emulate these efforts. Initiatives like this significantly contribute to peace, unity, and collaboration across all sectors,” he told the USOSA delegation.
USOSA President-General, Michael Magaji, expressed gratitude to the Rivers State government for their warm reception and support despite the tense atmosphere in the state. He noted that after successful editions in Lagos (2023) and Abuja (2024), Port Harcourt’s hosting of the carnival marked an important milestone.
“Sports remain a vital tool for nation-building, promoting unity, excellence, and healthy living. USOSA remains committed to promoting quality public education, good governance, and national unity,” Magaji said.
He thanked key supporters, including General Chris Gabwin Musa, the Chief of Defence Staff, and Didi Walson-Jack, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, both alumni of Unity Schools.
In his goodwill message, General Musa highlighted the transformative impact of Unity Schools on shaping the character, attitude, and minds of Nigerian youths, noting that events like the USOSA Carnival rekindle old friendships and strengthen national bonds.
The carnival’s closing ceremony featured vibrant cultural displays, with Federal Government College (FGC) Benin dazzling the audience with a colorful parade featuring a depiction of the Oba’s royal household.
In the sporting contests, Federal Government College, Ikot Ekpene, emerged overall champions, clinching eight gold medals and a total of 15 medals. FGC Ogbomosho followed in second place with four golds and 13 medals overall, while Federal Government Girls College, Ikot Obio Itong, took third place with three golds and seven medals, also winning the title of Best Female School.
The Rivers State government’s enthusiastic support of the USOSA carnival is seen as a strong message of resilience and a step toward restoring the Garden City’s status as a prime destination for major national events.