Sanwo-Olu Hosts Lagos Athletes After Victorious National Youth Games Outing
The Lagos State Government on Tuesday played host to the athletes who won various colours of medals at the recently held 8th National U-15 Youth Games (NYG) hosted in Asaba, Delta State.
Though Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu was unavoidably absent due to some national assignments outside the state, the Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Hamzat who stood in for him was a delight to the young athletes at the Banquet Hall of the Lagos House where the reception took place.
In his keynote address through the Deputy Governor, Sanwo-Olu “commended the courage, resilience, and discipline demonstrated by our exceptional student-athletes across various sports. You are truly our pride, and we hold you in the highest regard. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way to reach your full potential.”
Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized the leading role Team Lagos have been playing in Nigerian sports, saying that “Lagos has established itself as a leader in nearly every sport, and as a state, we remain dedicated to leveraging our school sports system as a foundation for sports development
“Our government will continue to fully support the Sports Commission in its mission to encourage participation in all forms of sports, identify emerging talent, and create an enabling environment for athletes to develop their skills. Your remarkable achievements at the National Youth Games over the past eight editions have positioned us as leaders in Nigeria’s school sports development.
“With a reputation for excellence, Lagos has consistently supported sports at all levels, organizing competitions from school sports to elite contests. Following the rules and regulations of the Games, Team Lagos proudly fielded 270 young, promising athletes under 15 years old across five categories of sports: 11 Individual Sports, 5 Racket Sports, 6 Team Sports, 5 Combat Sports, 3 Traditional Sports, 2 Para-Sports, and 1 Deaf Sport.
“Since 2019, Team Lagos has impressively secured the 2nd position in each of our six consecutive participations in 2019, 2021, 2023, and 2024. In 2024, we further solidified our standing by earning 26 Gold, 20 Silver, and 20 Bronze medals, narrowing the gap between us and the first-place state, and increasing the distance from the third-place state. It is important to note that these achievements are entirely merit-based, a testament to our athletes’ youthfulness, vigor, and adherence to ethical standards without any age falsification or malpractice. Team Lagos is now strategically focused on securing the overall winner’s position in future editions.
“Our commitment to integrating sports and education has led to the full participation of students from both public and private secondary schools across our state’s six Education Districts and 20 Local Government Education Authorities. This approach aligns with the THEMES+ agenda, particularly emphasizing “Education & Technology” and “Gender Equality, Social Inclusion & Youth.”
“As we celebrate these achievements, let us remember that the journey of sports development and excellence is a continuous one. These young athletes embody the spirit of Lagos—resilient, bold, and always striving for greatness. Our commitment to nurturing their potential remains unwavering, and together, we will build a brighter future where sports and education thrive side by side, shaping the champions of tomorrow.
“As we honour these exceptional young athletes, I would also like to extend heartfelt commendations to their parents, guardians, and mentors. Your unwavering support, sacrifice, and encouragement have been instrumental in shaping these young champions. Behind every triumph on the field, we see the dedication and love of people who believe in the dreams of their children and wards, providing the foundation for their success.
“Thank you for standing by them, for nurturing their passion, and for playing such a vital role in this journey. Your commitment to their growth and excellence reflects the spirit of Lagos, and with your continued support, we will reach even greater heights in sports and education. Congratulations once again to Team Lagos and to all the families who make these achievements possible.
“Let us all commit to supporting these remarkable youths as they pursue their dreams, lifting Lagos to even greater heights. Congratulations once again to Team Lagos. You have made us proud, and we stand with you as you continue to reach for gold.”
The deputy governor thereafter announced cash rewards to appreciate the youngsters for doing the state proud at the Asaba Games.
All gold medalists are to receive the sum of N200,000 each with silver and bronze medals winner taking home the sum of N150,000 and N100,000 each respectively.
In its magnanimity, the state government also gave all the participating athletes at the National Youth Games the sum of N50,000 each as a gesture of everyone was a winner at the championship.
The coaches were also not left out in the largesse as they received the sum of N100,000 each.
The Commissioner of Youth and Social Development, Mr. Mobolaji Abubakre Ogunlende thanked the parents for entrusting their children in the care of the Lagos State government during the Games in Asaba, even as he commended the management and staff of the Lagos State Sports Commission for taking sports to the next level in the state.
Director General of the Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu said that Lagos will remain the epicenter of sports in Nigeria, adding that the commitment of Governor Sanwo-Olu has made the victory at the NYG possible.
“I believe this reception will have a great impact on these young and vibrant athletes as they will forever keep the memories.
“There is no doubt that their outing at the National Youth Games has really encouraged these athletes and their peers to take more interest in sports,” he said.
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