The Principal of I.I. Erigbuem Secondary Commercial School, Owa-Alero, Barr. Samuel Ehikwe, has called on well-meaning individuals and organizations to support the school’s digital transformation and infrastructure needs, as the institution hosted its first Inter-House Sports Competition under its new name.
Delivering his address at the event, Barr. Ehikwe warmly welcomed dignitaries, guests, staff, and students, describing the occasion as historic for the school. He expressed gratitude to God for the progress recorded both individually and collectively within the school community.
Highlighting the institution’s achievements, the principal noted that the school has made remarkable strides in both academics and sports.
According to him, the school had built a strong sporting team that had consistently won laurels in various competitions while also recording an impressive 90 percent pass rate in external examinations, including those conducted by the West African Examinations Council, ( WAEC), the National Examinations Council of Nigeria ( NECO), and BECE.
He attributed the successes to the dedication and cooperation of the staff and students, emphasizing that their collective efforts had been instrumental in the school’s growth.
Barr. Ehikwe also used the occasion to appreciate several individuals and groups for their contributions to the development of the school.
Those recognized included Rev. (Dr.) Eric Nwachukwu, Nwachukwu Ifeanyi, Dr. Okowa Monday, Rt. Hon. Ifeanyi Eboigbe, Hon. Marilyn Okowa Daramola, Elder Chris Eboh, the Erigbuem family, Barr. Isitor Raymond, the Old Students Association, the Owa-Alero Elders Forum, the Vigilante Group, and other education stakeholders.
Speaking on emerging challenges, the principal expressed concern over the growing shift from analogue to computer-based education systems. He noted that many schools, including I.I. Erigbuem Secondary Commercial School, are not adequately prepared for this transition, especially as examination bodies increasingly adopt digital methods.
He, therefore, appealed for support in the provision of computers, accessories, and solar power systems, estimating the cost at ₦40 million.
In addition to digital needs, Barr. Ehikwe drew attention to a pressing environmental issue affecting the school.
He revealed that severe erosion is threatening the only access road to the institution, calling for urgent intervention to construct drainage systems and tar the entrance road.
While acknowledging the role of government, he stressed that it cannot meet all the needs of the education sector alone, urging old students, philanthropists, and organizations to invest in the school’s development.
Responding, the chairman of the event, Mr. Victor Morka, noted that the inter-house sports competition goes beyond mere athletic contests, emphasizing its role in promoting discipline, teamwork, unity, and holistic development among students. He stated that sports remain a vital component of education, helping to build physical fitness, mental resilience, and social interaction.
Mr. Morka encouraged participating students to compete with determination and fairness while upholding the spirit of sportsmanship. He urged them to remain disciplined and respectful throughout the competition, regardless of the outcome.
He also drew attention to the needs of the institution, revealing that the school required essential academic materials to sustain its growth.
He appealed to individuals, groups, and organizations to contribute to the development of the school, stressing that collective efforts would yield a significant impact.
“As stakeholders in the future of these young ones, we must come together to support their growth. Indeed, little drops of water make a mighty ocean,” he said.
Mr. Morka urged participants and spectators to maintain order, patience, and cooperation to ensure a smooth and successful event.
The highlight of the ceremony which held on Thursday, March 26, 2026, at the school’s sports ground, was the official declaration of the 15th Annual Inter-House Sports Competition open, marking the commencement of sporting activities amidst excitement and anticipation among students and spectators.
The competing houses and their patrons are: Red House (Mr. Okoro Nwachukwu), Lemon House (Hon. Ifeanyi Eboigbe), Yellow House (Mr. Ifeanyi Nwachukwu), Green House (Dr. Monday Okowa), Blue House (Chief Amufa Donatus), and White House (Mr. Kingsley Erigbuem).
At the end of the competition, the White House emerged the overall winner, followed by the Lemon House in second position, while the third position went to the Yellow House.
