Team Lagos set for glory at the 9th National Youth Games in Asaba

 

Lagos State has once again raised the bar in youth sports development as 416 athletes on the bill of the State, alongside 80 technical officials are competing for honours in Asaba, Delta State, South-West, Nigeria, for the 9th edition of National Youth Games.

The Director-General, Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Lekan Fatodu, expressed confidence in the team’s preparation and highlighted the deliberate strategies put in place to ensure a successful outing. He went on to explain that the Commission had identified areas for improvement and had taken proactive steps to motivate and inspire the athletes.

 

Team Lagos secured 11 qualification tickets at the South-West Zonal Eliminations in Ibadan, Oyo State, and Fatodu believes that the foundation has been laid for another remarkable performance in Asaba.

Honourable Fatodu, emphasized that the state has strengthened its reward system for athletes, coaches, and technical officials as part of its blueprint to encourage success. “This new approach will undoubtedly boost morale and translate into podium finishes,” he stated.

Fatodu who thanked His Excellency, Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu for providing extraordinary support for the Commission, noted that the Governor’s commitment has been key in success of the state's athletes, enhancing their capacity and overall performance.

 

“This support has been instrumental in driving the Commission’s success. We are optimistic that our deliberate efforts will yield multiple podium appearances for Lagos State. Lagosians should expect nothing less than excellence,” Fatodu stressed.

He added that Lagos State will showcase its strength across multiple sports, including athletics, swimming, boxing, and weightlifting. The Director-General also emphasized the Commission’s zero tolerance for age cheating in football, stressing that every Lagos athlete heading to Asaba falls within the right age category.

“With talented athletes and a well-defined strategy, Lagos is ready to reclaim its position as a sporting powerhouse in Nigeria and beyond,” he said.

Hon. Fatodu predicts that in the near future, the State will become the home of multi-sports in Nigeria. Reaffirming that the state will continue to lead in talent discovery and development.

 

“We are confident that we will surpass our previous performances. Lagos State will once again show why it is the nation’s pacesetter in sports,” he concluded.