As a state committed to youth and sports development, Lagos has once again demonstrated its dedication to nurturing athletes and budding talents across various disciplines. The state received the accolades as the Most Outstanding State in Sports Development by Arise TV, solidifying its reputation as a trailblazer in promoting sports as a tool for growth and excellence.
By creating dynamic platforms for young athletes to showcase their skills and providing opportunities for them to represent Lagos at national developmental games, the state has underscored its immense contributions to using sports and physical activities as a means of empowerment, shaping minds and promoting healthy lifestyle.
Under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, who has demonstrated remarkable interest in and support for sports, the Lagos State Sports Commission with Team Lagos shone brightly at the 8th National Youth Games in Asaba, achieving unprecedented success on the medal table. The state’s dominance in disciplines such as boxing, football, hockey, and basketball, amongst others, reflects its critical investment in sports development and the effective management of its athletes.
The state’s commitment extends beyond competition. Through investments in critical infrastructure and the distribution of sports equipment to schools, Lagos has reinforced its dedication to grassroots sports. This ensures the discovery, training, and further grooming of potential athletes in an enabling environment.
Arise TV’s recognition of Lagos as the Most Outstanding State in Sports Development highlights the consistent efforts of the Sports Commission, under the guidance of Director General, Lekan Fatodu, in promoting sports and physical activities among its people.
From organizing sports clinics for school children and hosting initiatives like the Lagos Active Challenge, Lagos Blind Sports Fiesta and the Individual Boxing Club Championship to training Coaches and Games Masters/Mistresses, the state has consistently activated strategic partnerships and achieved remarkable milestones.
With its continued leadership in sports development, Lagos remains a beacon of excellence and a model for other states in Nigeria.
Meanwhile, the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu has described the recent award given to the Lagos State Sports Commission by a leading television in Nigeria, Arise TV as a well-deserved honour that added another feather to his administration.
Arise TV, the Nigerian world news channel, recognized Lagos State as the Most Outstanding State in Sports Development in 2024.
To Governor Sanwo-Olu, the award “is a testament to our vision in harnessing the power of sports to bridge divides and foster community.
“Sport is a great unifier and Lagos State will continue to lead in using it as a tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and economic development.
“This award serves as motivation to keep pushing boundaries and setting new standards for sports excellence across Nigeria and beyond.”
The Governor, however, gave a thump up to the Director General of the Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu, the management, staff and all the athletes of Lagos State for putting up unrelenting efforts to take Lagos to this height.
Sanwo-Olu said: “Well done to Hon. Lekan Fatodu and the Lagos State Sports Commission for their outstanding work in establishing Lagos as the hub of sports excellence in Nigeria. Your dedication and innovation have propelled Lagos to this position.
“Well done Team Lagos!
“Together, we will build on this momentum and elevate Lagos as an even greater force in global sports development.
“This is Lagos, and we lead.”
