Lagos State has once again proved its mettle as the pacesetter in Nigerian sports development, earning the prestigious title of Most Outstanding State in Sports Development for 2024 by ARISE TV.
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.
The announcement, made during ARISE TV’s year-end review of sports development across Nigeria, highlights Lagos State’s remarkable contributions to nurturing young talent, promoting grassroots sports, and delivering world-class sporting events. From excelling at the National Youth Games to driving transformative initiatives like the Lagos Town Race Series, and the Lagos Active Initiative, Lagos has consistently set new benchmarks for sports growth in the country.
Under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, the state has invested in the refurbishment of sports facilities, hosted high-profile competitions, and driven innovative programmes 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.
In acknowledging the honour, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Hon. Lekan Fatodu, expressed his profound gratitude to all those who have supported the state’s vision for sports excellence,
In his words, “I thank the Almighty God that 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.”
Fatodu also commended the dedication and hard work of the entire team behind this achievement, “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.”
He extended his appreciation to the public and his network of friends and associates, “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.”
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 programmes. These efforts align with the state’s overarching vision of using sports as a tool for youth empowerment, social cohesion, and economic development.
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.”
Lagos State Sports Commission
Arise News
Gbenga Omotoso
Dr. Obafemi Hamzat
Babajide Sanwo-Olu