AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

In a stunning display of dexterity, perseverance, and grit, Team Lagos has swept all four gold medals in the boxing competition at the 2024 National Youth Games. The Team Lagos U-15 puglist’s dominance across the weight categories marks a historic achievement for Lagos in youth sports, particularly boxing.

The gold medal run began with Agboola Oyindamola’s victory in the 40kg female category. Bello Olamide Lawal followed suit, claiming gold in the 42kg male category. Yakubu Sofiat clinched the top spot in the 42kg female category, while Bolarinwa Michael capped off the clean sweep with his triumph in the 44kg male division. These outstanding performances reflect the state’s commitment to identifying and nurturing young talent, with the potential for these athletes to thrive on both national and international stages.

This success underscores the continued efforts of Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose administration has prioritised sports development. Significant investments in sporting infrastructure and grassroots initiatives under his leadership have resulted in not only talent identification and development but also inspired an era of sports excellence. Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision of transforming Lagos into Africa’s sports hub is evident in the opportunities being created for athletes and administrators to shine and achieve recognition at various levels.

Speaking on the team’s success, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, commended the young boxers for their dedication and discipline. He emphasised that these victories serve as a foundation for future achievements, both nationally and internationally. “These athletes have made Lagos proud. Their success reaffirms the importance of grassroots sports development, and we remain committed to supporting their journeys to even greater heights,” Fatodu remarked.

Demonstrating the importance of the final bout to the Lagos State Government, Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, was present at the event, providing support and motivation to the young boxers. With words of encouragement and visible support, Ogunlende inspired the boxers, boosting their confidence, and pushing them to deliver exceptional performances that ultimately secured their victory.

With these triumphs, the future of Lagos boxing appears brighter than ever. Not only have these athletes brought glory to the state, but they have also ignited inspiration among a new generation of aspiring boxers. As they return to Lagos, celebrated as heroes, the focus now turns to their burgeoning careers, with many hoping to represent Nigeria on the global stage.

As Team Lagos revels in this historic achievement, it is evident that the state’s investments in sports are yielding impressive results and the leadership of the apex sports institution on top of its game. The success of these young athletes is a testament to the effectiveness of the state’s policies and programs. It is a source of pride for Lagos and a shining example for other states to emulate.

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

The Under-15 Team Lagos have emerged as a formidable force at the National Youth Games (NYG) Zonal Elimination Tournament in Osogbo, Osun State, securing a series of impressive victories across multiple sports.

These performances have solidified Lagos State’s qualification for the upcoming National Youth Games in Delta State next month.

In a thrilling volleyball match, the Lagos boys’ team decisively defeated the host state, Osun, with a 2-0 victory, showcasing their superior skills and coordination on the court.

The female football team mirrored this success, delivering a commanding 3-1 win against Oyo. Not to be outshone, the boys’ football team also put on a string showing to claim a 2-1 victory against Ekiti.

However, despite their commendable efforts, the results of a decisive match between other teams gave the upper hand to their rivals, ultimately ending Lagos’ run in the boys’ football competition.

Day two of the tournament brought even more victories for Lagos. The female football team secured another win, defeating Oyo 3-1 in a match that highlighted their resilience and skill. The Lagos female hockey team also delivered a solid 2-0 win against Oyo, and the male handball team demonstrated their superiority by outplaying Osun with a 16-12 victory.

These consistent victories underscore the depth of talent and preparation of Team Lagos, reaffirming the state’s commitment to nurturing young athletes and setting a high standard in sports.

The Lagos State Sports Commission remains dedicated to providing these young talents with the resources and motivation they need to excel as they advance to the National Youth Games 2024, scheduled to be held next month in Delta State.

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

n a bid to enhance the financial inclusivity and support for athletes, the Lagos State Sports Commission engaged on a strategic partnership with Parallex Bank to revolutionize payment solutions for athletes and foster talent development across the state.

Speaking at the meeting, the Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, who led the state’s delegation to the Head Office of Parallex Bank in Victoria Island, explained that the engagement aimed at igniting a mutually beneficial collaboration is a pivotal step in driving the state’s agenda in creating sustainable opportunities in sports by empowering athletes with the resources and support needed to achieve excellence.

According to him, the partnership is set to pave the way for a more efficient and transparent financial system within the sports sector, ensuring that athletes receive their payments promptly and through secure and efficient channel, while also investing in the next generation of sports talent in Lagos.

Fatodu explained that the commercial bank shares a similar interest with the State’s development agenda of bringing innovation to sports, with the broader goal of promoting long-term success of athletes both on and off the field and improving the sporting ecosystem across the state.

“By introducing a streamlined payment system, we are not only improving the welfare of our athletes but also encouraging a culture of excellence within Lagos sports. Our athletes are our pride, and we are committed to ensuring they receive the support they deserve to excel”, the Director General stated.

In his remarks, the Managing Director and CEO of Parallex Bank, Mr. Olufemi Bakre, revealed that the proposition between the Commission and the bank aligns seamlessly with the institution’s mission to support initiatives that make meaningful impact on society, particularly in empowering youth and fostering sustainable growth through sports development.

Mr. Bakre emphasized that the commitment of the bank to back sports development is a significant step in the bank’s endeavour to advance communities and create opportunities that extend beyond the playing field, ultimately driving positive social and economic outcomes.

He said, this strategic collaboration marks a major milestone in the bank’s commitment to creating value for every citizen, regardless of their status. And given the demographic that the Commission leads and interacts with—many of whom fall within the population our bank seeks to support with various financial interventions, supporting athletes and nurturing emerging talent is an investment we are fully committed to.

Emphasizing the bank’s dedication to supporting the advancement of sports in Lagos State, the Managing Director revealed that Parallex Bank is honoured to establish a strategic partnership with the Lagos State Sports Commission, adding that the aim is to enable talent development and provide a seamless and efficient payment solution that meets the specific needs of athletes, ensuring they are well-compensated for their hard work.

The meeting was attended by top-level officials of Parallex Bank and senior management members of the Lagos Sports Commission.