St. Barnabas LGEA School A, Ilorin U-13 soccer team has emerged champions of Africa in the Nestle Milo sponsored U-13 African Championship concluded in Lagos on Saturday.

The team defeated Ghana 5-4 on penalties, after a hard fought three-all draw. Nigeria had earlier dismissed South Africa 4-1 in the semi-finals.

While receiving the victorious team in Ilorin, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Sports and Youth Development, Mrs. Rhoda Ajiboye commended the team for bringing glory to the state and their parents.

She said that the team was the product of the National Schools Sports Festival which the state hosted last December.

Mrs. Ajiboye commended Soni Ahamioje, the Founder of Arsenal Kiddies Academy for his efforts and sacrifice, and the parents for supporting their wards, adding that the development of a child has to do with education and other support services like sports.

She tasked them to take their education very serious, while she also said that the Kwara State Governor; Dr. Abdulfatah Ahmed will receive the team very soon. Also, the Permanent Secretary of the State SUBEB, Dr. Musa Dasuki commended the state government for providing the enabling environment for the youths to freely exhibit their talents.

The team won the ticket to represent Nigeria after winning the U-13 soccer event of the Nigeria School Sports Festival last December.

By winning the African championship, the team also won a ticket to represent Africa at the World Youths tournament in Europe.

Apart from winning the trophy, the team also swept the individual honours at stake. Master Kunle Oluwasegun, who captained the team, emerged as the Most Valuable Player of the competition, Mustapha Adams scored five goals to emerge as Highest Goal Scorer, while Ayodeji Otoola won the Best Goalkeeper award.