… as Youth Basketball Festival Opens in Ogun

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has called on private individuals, corporate organisations and foundations to collaborate with the state government in developing sports and empowering young people.

Abiodun said since hosting the National Sports Festival in May, Ogun State has witnessed a surge in sporting programmes and competitions, noting that sustained partnerships are needed to grow sports, create opportunities for youth to discover their talents and drive innovation.

The governor made the call at the Alake Sports Centre, Ijeja, Abeokuta, while declaring open the Bosun Tijani Foundation Festive Basketball Tournament, which features teams from Lagos, Katsina, Ogun, Osun and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), among others.

The competition was an initiative of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani.

Represented by his deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Abiodun commended the minister for his vision of empowering young people through sports.

“We are particularly excited about the new spirit of sportsmanship and collaboration that this festival embodies,” the governor said. “I urge individuals, associations, foundations and corporate entities to seize this opportunity to partner with the Ogun State Government in our collective efforts to further develop sports within our state and across Nigeria.

“Since the last National Sports Festival, Ogun State has experienced a noticeable increase in sports programmes and competitions. This is a testament to the unwavering support of Governor Dapo Abiodun, and we are grateful for his commitment to sports development.”

Earlier, Dr. Tijani said the festival was designed to celebrate youth, talent and community, adding that the platform would uplift young people not only in Ogun State but across the country.

According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration is making deliberate investments in the future of young people, communities and the nation.

“This initiative is designed to create a joyful and inclusive space where young people can come together, express themselves freely, build confidence and form lasting connections through teamwork and healthy competition,” Tijani said.

“When young people are supported in environments like this, they reveal their potential not only as athletes, but as leaders and contributors to society. The tournament also reminds us, especially during this festive period, that community, creativity and positive outlets matter just as much as competition.”