A Nigerian news channel, ARISE TV, has expressed satisfaction with Lagos State’s commitment to sports development, saying Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has promoted sporting excellence, innovation and community engagement.

The news channel stated this while announcing that Lagos earned the title of Most Outstanding State in Sports Development for 2024 by ARISE TV.

The announcement, made during ARISE TV’s year-end review of sports development across Nigeria, was a testament to Lagos State’s remarkable contributions to nurturing young talent, promoting grassroots sports and delivering world-class sporting events.

Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, in his acknowledgement, expressed gratitude to all those who have supported the state’s vision for sports excellence.

Fatodu said: “Thank you, God! Despite all odds and other teething issues, we have emerged as the Most Outstanding in Sports Development in Nigeria in 2024. I extend my deepest gratitude to Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, our visionary and sports-loving governor, for providing me with this great platform and necessary support to prove my capacity and know-how. My appreciation also goes to our cerebral Deputy Governor, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, for his invaluable guidance and counsel on this journey.”

While ommending the dedication and hard work of the entire team behind this achievement, Fatodu said: “To the entire staff of the Lagos State Sports Commission, management, board, sports associations, athletes, coaches, corporate partners, sponsors, and other critical stakeholders in the Lagos and Nigerian sports ecosystem, I thank you for always standing by me in accelerating the lofty goal of enhancing sporting excellence in Lagos State. To my friends, associates, acquaintances, and admirers, thank you for your encouragement, prayers, best wishes, and invaluable advice. Your support has fueled our resolve and contributed immensely to this great achievement in 2024.”

As Lagos looks ahead to 2025, Fatodu reaffirmed the state’s commitment to building on its successes: “May 2025 bring even greater opportunities for us to shine brighter and make Lagos State an even more formidable force in sports both locally and internationally. The Lagos State Sports Commission remains committed to improving the lives of our athletes, expanding opportunities for youth engagement, and solidifying Lagos as the epicentre of sports development in Nigeria.”

Meanwhile, under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, the state has invested in the refurbishment of sports facilities, hosted high-profile competitions, and driven innovative programs to develop grassroots talent. Notable partnerships with the private sector and international organisations have further solidified Lagos’ position as a hub for sports excellence in Africa.

This prestigious recognition reflects the state’s remarkable strides in promoting sporting excellence, innovation and community engagement under the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and the Lagos State Sports Commission.

This recognition comes at a pivotal moment for Lagos State, following a year of significant accomplishments in sports, including notable performances in national and international competitions, investments in sports infrastructure, and pioneering grassroots talent development programs. These efforts align with the state’s overarching vision of using sports as a tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion and economic development.