Wale Jagun
The Lagos State Government is expecting sterling performance from its team representing the state at the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival tagged, ‘Gateway Games’ in Abeokuta, following the adequate preparation and support that the athletes received.
Over 650 athletes, competing in all 40 team and individual sporting events are expected to represent Lagos at the festival commencing this weekend in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
The Lagos State contingent on Friday departed the state for the Ogun State capital with the Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu and the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende bidding the team farewell and charging athletes and officials on outstanding performance.
Fatodu gave assurance that Team Lagos athletes to the sports festival will proudly represent the state while expressing optimism of a sterling performance that will surpass previous achievements at the multi sports fiesta.
The Director General commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring adequate funding and support towards the state participation and success of the team in Abeokuta.
Fatodu charged the athletes to give their best to repay the huge investment of the state government in sports development, noting that the Lagos State Sports Commission through the support of the state government is committed to expose and showcase athletes in all sports.
In his own remarks, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende said the National Sports Festival provided great opportunity for the athletes to showcase their talent as Governor Sanwo-Olu continues to engage the youth positively in all fields.
The athletes, who are fully prepared and committed to the cause, appreciated the Sports Commission for its continued motivation heading into the games and promise podium finishes at the National Sports Festival.
The 22nd National Sports Festival tagged ‘Gateway Games’ commenced on Friday with arrival of contingents from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja. The opening ceremony is scheduled for Sunday, May 18.
