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.

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.

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.