Lagos develops athletes at the grassroots level – Lekan Fatodu

The Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, has reiterated that the state will continue to leverage on development programmes and other initiatives to continue producing rising stars that will take over the global stage.

Read also: Funds still lacking: Urgent appeal to state governors to step up support as National Youth Games kick off in Asaba

He made the statement while speaking to journalists as the state prepares for the eighth edition of the National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

Lagos will be represented in 34 sports with 270 athletes when the National Development Games kick off from 9-19 September 2024.

Fatodu revealed that the state is planting the seeds for future talents and creating an atmosphere to generate and nurture budding stars through mentorship, training and incentives to make them understand that it is a pride to represent Lagos and an opportunity to showcase their sporting skills.

He commended the Lagos State Government under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for ensuring that payment, welfare and schemes for the athletes come at the right time, adding that the state is developing sports infrastructure in the various communities in order to gain access to the stadiums.

On the age discrepancies among athletes, Lekan Fatodu opined that it has been transparent and fruitful to ensure that the state parades athletes within the required age in accordance with the rules and regulations governing the National Youth Games. “It is going to be unfair on our part as we field the right number of people according to their age and other people are trying to game the system or trying to cheat by fielding over-aged athletes.

“It is part of the conversation we want to take to the highest level of authority, so that efforts can be made to eliminate the threat in the sports ecosystem.”

“In Lagos, we are very proud that during our zonal elimination, the camp, training and selection are the strictest in the country and it is a model that others should emulate.”

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