ABEOKUTA – The Ogun State Government has expressed its desire to partner with the National Sports Commission (NSC) to strengthen sports development and nurture young talents in the state.
The call was made during the presentation of a N3million naira cash reward to an outstanding Ogun athlete, Miss Afsoh Majekodunmi, by the National Sports Commission at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta.
Speaking at the event, the Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Development, Wasiu Isiaka, appreciated the Federal Government and the National Sports Commission for recognising the athlete’s achievement and for bringing the 22nd National Sports Festival to Ogun State.
Isiaka said the state government remains committed to supporting athletes, noting that medal-winning athletes in the state were recently rewarded for their performance.
He added that Ogun State now boasts improved sporting facilities and is open to working closely with the National Sports Commission to host more competitions and promote grassroots sports development.
The commissioner, therefore, appealed to the commission, particularly its grassroots sports department, to partner with Ogun State in discovering and nurturing young talents.
Isiaka also commended Majekodunmi for bringing honour to the state, describing her achievement as a source of motivation for young athletes.
He expressed optimism that the athlete would represent both Ogun State and Nigeria proudly at the upcoming Youth Olympics in Senegal.
“Thank you very much. Let me on behalf of the government and the good people of Ogun state, thank in the first instance, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for this initiative, and also the National Sports Commission for deeming it fit to come here today, I also want to thank you again for bringing the 22nd national sport festival to Ogun state.
“Two weeks ago, the Ogun State Government also awarded the winners of medals at the National Sports Festival and this was in tune with what I believe the National Sports Commission is doing here now.
“Let me also use this opportunity to plead with the National Sports Commission that we have the facility in Ogun state now, and we are ready to partner with the National Sports Commission for any sport or sporting activities in Oguns state.
“Miss Majekodunmi, thank you for bringing honor to Ogun state. And this is not just for you alone, but it’s going to be a source of inspiration to a lot of people,” highly enthusiastic Isiaka averred.
The National Sports Commission initiative is expected to reward between 30 and 35 athletes across the country who distinguished themselves in sports competitions last year.
