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Gbadebo Oyebola, Chief of Staff to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, described his appointment to the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) of the Abuja 2027 African Youth Games as an important national responsibility and an opportunity to significantly contribute to the growth of youth sports across Africa.
Oyebola, who is part of the 28-member committee inaugurated by the National Sports Commission (NSC), said hosting the African Youth Games will further strengthen Nigeria’s reputation as a major hub for international sporting events while creating new opportunities for young athletes.
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According to him, the Games represent more than just a competition, but a platform for talent discovery, youth empowerment and continental unity.
“The Abuja 2027 African Youth Games present a great opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate its readiness to lead the development of youth sports across Africa. It will inspire young athletes, promote unity among young Africans and strengthen the future of sports on the continent,” Oyebola said.
He praised the leadership of the National Sports Commission, headed by President Mallam Shehu Dikko and Director General Hon. Bukola Olopade, for his strategic vision in securing hosting rights and starting early preparations for the Games.
Oyebola also commended the appointment of Lekan Abari as Chairman of the Local Organizing Committee and expressed confidence in his leadership and wealth of experience in sports administration.
“With an experienced sports administrator like Lekan Abari leading the committee, there is great confidence that the Local Organizing Committee will deliver a memorable and well-structured Games for Africa’s young athletes,” he added.
He further acknowledged the continued efforts of the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adeyinka Anthony Adeboye, noting that his commitment to the development of grassroots sports continues to strengthen the foundation for discovering and nurturing young talents across the country.
“The SSA has remained steadfast in promoting grassroots sports as a key driver of youth development and national growth. Its dedication to building strong sporting structures at the grassroots level aligns perfectly with the vision of the African Youth Games,” Oyebola noted.
He emphasized that the inauguration of the LOC marks the beginning of a strategic process that will require collaboration, transparency and teamwork among all stakeholders to ensure that Nigeria delivers a world-class tournament.
Oyebola expressed optimism that with collective effort and commitment, Abuja 2027 will set a new standard for youth sporting events in Africa while providing young athletes across the continent with a memorable, life-changing experience.
