Ilorin 2019 NYG: Team Lagos Set For Zonal Eliminations In Ibadan

The Lagos state contingent arrived the ancient city of Ibadan early on Friday in readiness for the champions which runs through this weekend. The contest is involving the South West states; Ekiti, Lagos, Ogun, Ondo, Osun and Oyo. Team Lagos  for slots in team events such as Basketball, Cricket, Football, Handball, Hockey and Volleyball.

Team Lagos however will take part in  six team sports, namely Football (male and female), Basketball (male and female), Handball (male and female), Hockey (male and female),  Cricket (male and female), Volleyball (male and female).

The athletes who are in high spirits in readiness for the zonal eliminations have been assured of adequate support by the management of the Lagos State Sports Commission. Team Lagos had a good debut outing at the 2018 edition of the NYG with an overall second position.

Interestingly, Lagos State won medals in virtually all sports the athletes participated in.

While addressing the Lagos State Contingent to the Zonal Qualifiers, the Executive Chairman of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Dr. Kweku Tandoh urged the athletes to do the state proud by qualifying in all the team sports to be competing for.

He charged them to be good ambassadors of the state both on and off the field of play.

Executive Chairman of Lagos State Sports Commission, Dr. Tandoh (left) addressing the athletes on the eve of their departure to Ibadan

 

“Some of you represented Lagos at the last at the Youth Games. We are going to Ibadan and we expect the best from you. We also want you to be disciplined. You all know what the state is known for; Center of Excellence. All of you must display that excellence not just on the pitch but even in your hostels and accommodations. Let everyone see you and say those athletes from Lagos are well behaved, very disciplined, well brought up children and talented athletes. It is an honour to represent the state and we will be there to support you”.

The Chairman assured the team of the support of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu who has provided everything that is required for the athletes to excel while urging them to bring back glory to the state.

“I want to extend the best wishes of His Excellency, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to each and everyone of you. He wishes you the best and he is supporting the team fully, so you have to put in your best. By the grace of God, all of you will qualifier for main games in Ilorin and we will go there and triumph,” Tandoh said.

Also addressing the athletes, the Director General,  Lagos State Sports Commission, Oluwatoyin Gafaar charged the contingent to be of good behavior on the field of play, adding that everybody from coaches,  athletes and officials should work together in Ibadan for the success of Team Lagos.

The 5th National Youth Games, which is billed for Ilorin, Kwara State, will hold from September 7th to 17th at the University of Ilorin.

At the last edition, Team Lagos placed second overall with 60 medals; 23 gold, 15 silver and 22 bronze.

Abimbola Disu won four gold Medals for Team Lagos at the 2018 National Youth Games  in Ilorin.