By Progress Godfrey 

ABUJA—The Unique Open University (UOU), awarded scholarships worth about N50 million to outstanding student-athletes at the finals of the National Secondary School America Football League, popularly known as AKETI Bowl 2.

The scholarship presentation ceremony, organised in partnership between UOU, the Nigeria American Football Association (NAFA), and the Lagos State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, held in Lagos, rewardeding top-performing athletes in flag football while reinforcing a “student-first” development philosophy that integrates sports discipline with academic advancement.

In his remarks, Founder and President of Unique Open University, Prof Imumolen represented by the Dean of Students, Azuka Innocent, commended the participating schools and athletes for demonstrating discipline, teamwork and determination throughout the tournament. He noted that the scholarship initiative reflects the university’s commitment to empowering young Nigerians through education while encouraging them to pursue excellence in sports. 

He explained that the scholarships were designed to ensure that talented young athletes are not forced to abandon their academic ambitions due to financial constraints. According to him, the initiative aligns with the institution’s broader vision of promoting inclusive and flexible learning opportunities for young Nigerians, especially those who combine academics with sporting careers.

“This scholarship is not just a reward for athletic performance; it is an investment in the future of these young athletes. We believe that education and sports can work together to build discipline, leadership and resilience,” he said.

Prof Imumolen added that the university remains committed to identifying and nurturing young talents across the country, stressing that the combination of education and sports development would contribute significantly to youth empowerment and national development.

Also speaking, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Clement Ogbaini, said the scholarship scheme demonstrates UOU’s commitment to removing financial barriers that often hinder talented young people from achieving their academic potential.

Winners also emerged at the finals with Army Cantonment Girls School and Ikeja Grammar School, clinching female and male categories respectively. The scholarship also provided cash prizes donated by the Nigerian American Football Association presented to the winning teams. 

The ceremony was attended by senior officials of the Lagos State education sector, including the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Jamiu Tolani Ali-Balogun; the Permanent Secretary, Abisola Dokunmu-Adegbite; Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District V, Hassan Dauda Abiodun; Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, Education District VI, Mojisola Christiana Yusuff; and the Director of Co-curricular Services Division, Adebesin Oluyemisi.