Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has pledged to host members of Team Lagos following their emphatic victory at the 9th National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State.
Even before the official closing ceremony on Saturday, Team Lagos had already secured the top spot on the medals table, outshining host state Delta and third-placed Edo.
In a virtual meeting with the athletes and their officials, held from the SpringHill Hotel in Asaba, Governor Sanwo-Olu expressed his pride and gratitude to the young champions, their coaches, and the Lagos State Sports Commission.
“We are very proud of you for winning the National Youth Games. I am excited that Lagos is demonstrating once again that we are the best in Nigerian sports. In the next one or two weeks, we will all gather at the State House to celebrate this remarkable achievement and share dinner together” Sanwo Olu said.
The Governor also commended the parents of the athletes for supporting their children’s participation and encouraged the youngsters to uphold discipline as they progress to U-17 and national teams.
He praised the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, for his leadership and commitment to grassroots sports development.
The athletes responded with loud cheers of “Eko, Eko, Eko,” echoing their pride in representing the state.
In his remarks, Fatodu applauded Governor Sanwo-Olu for his support, noting that Lagos had reclaimed its place as the number one sporting state in Nigeria.
“There is no better way to thank you than this historic victory. For the first time in years, Lagos is back at the top of Nigerian sports. We are also proud that Lagos fielded athletes who were true to the age categories. A Lagos schoolboy defeated his ‘senior’ competitors to win the 200m title, while our U-15 girls claimed gold in football. This is only the beginning,” Fatodu said.
By Friday evening, Team Lagos had amassed a commanding lead on the medals table with 82 medals, 40 gold, 25 silver, and 17 bronze. Delta State followed with 30 gold, 32 silver, and 30 bronze, while Edo finished third with 30 gold, 12 silver, and 20 bronze.
