As the 2024 National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State, winds down, the Director General of Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Lekan Fatodu, has reiterated the commitment of the present administration of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu to sports and talent development as Team Lagos surpassed the previous record of the NYG.
He said, “The Centre of Excellence’s impressive performance this year was remarkable, surpassing the feat of the previous edition after recording 26 gold, 20 Silver and 19 bronze medals. Lagos finished second in the last edition with 21 Gold, 19 silver and 21 bronze medals”.
Speaking on the milestone achievement at the closing ceremony, Fatodu disclosed that the future of sports, particularly in talents and grassroots development, which is the focus of the NYG, lies with Lagos State.
He noted that Lagos has proven with the remarkable outing at the national showpiece designed for the U-15 Athletes, that the State should be looked out for in future Championships to improve on the performance.
Recall that Lagos trounced hosts Delta in the basketball final, proving the level of the Eko girl’s dominance in the dunking game, which ended 10-8. Another interesting outing for Team Lagos is the stellar performances from the athletes in boxing, sweeping all four gold medals available in the event.
A lone goal from Olaitan Muinat in the hockey final against Kaduna earned Lagos a gold medal after playing six matches without losing.
In Abula (traditional sport), Lagos defeated their counterparts from Oyo 2-1 (16-13,8-16,16-14) to clinch the gold medal in the female category, following a keenly contested final.
“We see these young talents as the future of sports in Lagos State. We are looking at them from the angle of sports development around education, what they are doing in school and what the future lies to ensure further improvement in sports talent development”, said Fatodu.
He added that the state is doling out the best incentives to the athletes through the intervention and support of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
