Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rewarded Team Lagos athletes for their outstanding performance at the 8th National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, appreciating their second-place finish at the competition.
At a reception held at the Banquet Hall, Lagos House, Ikeja, the governor, who was represented by his deputy, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, announced a cash reward of N200,000 for gold medallists, N150,000 for silver medallists, and N100,000 for bronze medallists, while all athletes received N50,000 each. The coaches were not left out, being rewarded with $100,000 each.
“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. 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”, Sanwo-Olu said.
The governor emphasised that his administration’s THEMES+ agenda aligns with the commitment to integrating sports and education, which led to the full participation of students from public and private secondary schools across the state’s six education districts and 20 local government education authorities.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, appreciated the efforts of the Lagos State Sports Commission, sponsors, parents of athletes, and the athletes.
Lagos State Sports Commission Director General, Lekan Fatodu, stated that the unique development is tied to the athletes’ different academic disciplines as different entities, adding that the state would continue to support them.
“We are changing the narrative around sports development. We will continue to watch the development and continue to support them to greater heights”, Fatodu said.
Speaking on behalf of the parents, Godwin Egbebe expressed gratitude to the Lagos State Government and Lagos State Sports Commission for finding their wards worthy of representing the state.
Speaking on behalf of the athletes, nine-year-old golfer Beauty Oyero, who won silver at the Games, appreciated the state government and Sports Commission, promising that the athletes would bring more glory to the state in future competitions.
