Follow Us on Google
A member of the Lagos State House of Assembly representing Oshodi/Isolo Constituency I, Honourable Stephen Olukayode Ogundipe, has called on the Federal Government to replicate the Sporty Lagos initiative across the federation, describing it as a powerful tool for youth engagement, unity, and crime reduction.
Speaking at the FirstBank Sporty Lagos 3.0 event held on Saturday at Rowe Park Sports Complex, Yaba, the lawmaker noted that the country is currently facing economic hardship and security challenges, and initiatives like Sporty Lagos provide hope and positive engagement for Nigerians.
According to him, the event demonstrated how sports can serve as a unifying force and a platform for redirecting youthful energy towards productive activities.
“There is hardship in the country today, but with events like this, Nigerians can see the light of the day,” Ogundipe said.
“Lagos State is a pace-setter. We are always exemplary when it comes to initiatives like this across the federation.”
The Sporty Lagos 3.0 edition attracted a massive turnout, with participants competing in various sporting activities. A total of ₦5 million in cash prizes, sponsored by First Bank of Nigeria Plc, was won by individuals and teams across different games.
Honourable Ogundipe praised the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development, Hon. Adebanji Adeoye Atewogboye (SKIBANJ), for creating a sustainable platform that identifies, nurtures, and develops grassroots talents across Lagos State.
“One of the best ways to nurture talent is to identify it, develop it, and continuously monitor progress. That is exactly what Hon. Atewogboye has been doing since assuming office,” he added.
The lawmaker further urged the Presidency to adopt the initiative nationwide, stressing that sports can help address insecurity, crime, and youth restiveness—particularly by engaging vulnerable youths across different regions of the country.
“With events like this, we can take young people off the streets, especially in the northern part of the country. Sporting activities are powerful. Many Nigerians, especially in the North, have a deep love for sports,” he said.
“If this initiative is taken across the federation, crimes, kidnapping, and other social vices will be drastically reduced.”
Also speaking at the event, Mrs. Yinka Kenny, journalist and television broadcaster who anchored Sporty Lagos 3.0, expressed delight at the large turnout and the peaceful atmosphere.
“I am honoured and elated to witness the beauty of Lagosians coming out en masse to grace this occasion,” she said.
“The Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Grassroots Sports Development, led by Mr. Adebanji Adeoye Atewogboye, is doing an exceptional job of bringing peace, love, and joy to the grassroots.”
Mrs. Kenny described Atewogboye’s work as impactful and urged the Federal Government to adopt similar initiatives nationwide.
“Other states would be lucky to have someone like him. Nigerians need hope, and through programmes like this, respite can truly be achieved across the country,” she enthused.
Sporty Lagos continues to gain recognition as a transformative grassroots sports initiative, reinforcing Lagos State’s leadership role in youth development, social cohesion, and community-driven governance.
• R-L: Hon. Atewogboye Adebanji Adeoye (SKIBANJ), the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports (third right); and the representative of Lagos State House of Assembly, Hon. Stephen ogundipe (Middle), member representing Oshodi-Isolo Constituency I among other guest of honours during the third edition of First Bank Sporty Lagos
