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LAGOS CAPTURES GLOBAL ATTENTION WITH E-SPORTS ROUNDTABLE AT PARIS OLYMPICS 2024

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

In a remarkable display of vision, leadership, and innovation, the Lagos State Sports Commission hosted the Lagos Paris Olympics 2024 Esports and Sports Economy Roundtable at the Africa Station Doom, L’lle-Saint-Denis in Paris, France.

Convened under the theme “Exploring New Frontiers and Business Opportunities in Sports,” the Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, who led the charge at the high-profile event, held on the sidelines of the Paris Olympics highlighted the commitment of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration to sports development and its vision for sports excellence and global collaboration.

Fatodu explained that the event was conceptualised to draw international attention to Nigeria’s burgeoning sports industry and highlight Lagos’ potential as a major hub for sports development in Africa as participants explored innovative approaches to harness the economic potential of both traditional and electronic sports, examining best practices from across the African continent.

The roundtable event which delved into various aspects of sports development, with a particular focus on esports – a rapidly growing sector that has captured global attention brought together an impressive array of stakeholders, including high-ranking government officials, potential investors, and representatives from prominent international sporting organisations.

Discussants at the panel session comprising of eminent personalities such as Mr. Désiré Koussawo, Président France Esports; Mr. Lekan Ajisafe, philanthropist and sports aficionado; Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, Chairman Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Sports; Mr. Mobolaji Ogunlende, Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Social Development in Lagos State explored the significant of creating opportunities across the entire value-chain of sport for sustainable sport economy and how investors can leverage on Lagos prominence to develop the sporting industry.

Other panellists who shared insight on contemporary strategies to advance e-sports business in Nigeria include Mr. Lanre Alfred, CEO Old English, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, Mr. Damilare Orimoloye; Mr. Deji Omotoyinbo, veteran sports broadcaster; Mr. Tella Abiodun, CEO G2P Sports Limited; Dr. Kweku Tandoh, Renowned Sports specialist and President of the Nigerian Badminton Federation; and Mr. Frank Orbih.

The Director General further pointed out that the gathering served as a platform to showcase Lagos’ commitment to sports advancement and its vision for fostering global collaborations in the field.

According to him, one of the key outcomes of the event was the reinforcement of Lagos’ position as a promising investment destination for sports-related ventures with several international investors expressing keen interest in the opportunities presented, citing the city’s robust infrastructure and the government’s proactive approach to sports development.

“As the Paris Olympics continue to captivate the world, Lagos has successfully leveraged this global platform to spotlight its sporting ambitions. The roundtable has not only elevated the city’s international profile but has also opened new avenues for economic growth through sports. All eyes are now on Lagos to see how it will translate the momentum gained from the roundtable into tangible actions. As one participant aptly put it, “Lagos has not just entered the global sports conversation; it has positioned itself to lead it”, he emphasised.

As the event drew to a close, participants were regaled by iconic entertainer Baba Dee, who entertained the gathering with his evergreen tunes.

The Lagos Paris Olympics 2024 Esports and Sports Economy Roundtable may well be remembered as the event that marked Lagos’ emergence as a significant force in the international sports landscape, promising exciting developments for the future of sports in Africa and beyond.

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DABIRI-EREWA DESCRIBES SAMSON DAUDA’S VICTORY AS TRIUMPH OF DEDICATION

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DABIRI-EREWA DESCRIBES SAMSON DAUDA’S VICTORY AS TRIUMPH OF DEDICATION

AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Hon. (Dr) Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), has congratulated Nigerian-British bodybuilder Samson Dauda for winning the 2024 Mr Olympia bodybuilding title, securing more than $600,000—the largest prize in the sport’s history.

Dauda emerged victorious at the finale held at Resorts World Theatre, Las Vegas, beating top competitors Hadi Choopan, who placed second, and Derek Lunsford, the 2023 champion, who finished third.

Dabiri-Erewa in a message through the Commission ‘s Head of Media and Public Relations, Abdur-Rahman Balogun, praised Dauda’s extraordinary journey, from his early years in Lagos to his rise in professional bodybuilding, noting that his win is a moment of pride for Nigerians globally.

“This achievement showcases the excellence Nigerians in the diaspora continue to display across various sectors. Samson Dauda has proven that with focus and perseverance, success is inevitable,” she said.

Born in Lagos, Dauda moved to the United Kingdom as a teenager, where he transitioned from rugby to bodybuilding.

His professional journey took off after winning the IFBB Amateur Diamond Cup in Rome in 2017. Dauda has since demonstrated consistent growth, culminating in his Mr Olympia title.

NiDCOM continues to celebrate and support the achievements of Nigerians abroad, reaffirming its commitment to promoting their talents and contributions to global development.

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AFCON 2025 QUALIFIERS: Treatment of Super Eagles players in Libya despicable- DABIRI-EREWA

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AJAGBE ADEYEMI TESLIM

SPONSORED BY: H&H

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO, Nigerians in Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM) has condemned the treatment meted out to the Super Eagles team by Libya authorities ahead of its second leg match slated for Tuesday in the country.

She noted that travelling by road in Libya is most dangerous and totally not advisable because of the current situation in the country.

The team which left Nigeria on Sunday to Libya for its return match had their flight diverted to an innocuous airport far away from the venue of the match.

The implication of the diversion will now be another three hours of road travel to the main venue of the match, not minding the risk of road travel in Libya , considering the situation of the war-torn country.

Dabiri-Erewa said the safety of Nigerian players is paramount to the country, and was optimistic that the Ministry of Sports and the NFF will advice appropriately.

She also called on CAF to treat the matter with the seriousness it deserves.

Already, the players, the pilots and others on board the flight had been stranded and subjected to inhuman treatment at the airport for over 13 hours without water, food, rest and other means of communication.

“The team were delayed at an airport in Libya for more than 13 hours without any tangible reason” The Super Eagles flight was redirected air borne on Sunday and they were required to travel by road to their destination.

However, there was no provision made for them by the Libya authorities and all efforts to make alternative provisions by Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) was frustrated.

Dabiri-Erewa appealed to the Super Eagles to remain calm why the Nigerian Football Federation will decide the next line of action.

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BREAKING NEWS: Lagos Sweeps All Gold Medals in Boxing Competition at National Youth Games 2024

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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.

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