Fashola Lauds Lagos State Sports Vision

By Saheed Afolabi 

Former Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has emphasized the immense global prospects within the sports industry, applauding the Lagos State Government for its forward-thinking approach to youth empowerment and sports development.

Fashola made this known at the 2025 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Africa Youth Cup, tagged the “BRF Cup,” held at the Molade-Okoya Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.

In an electrifying atmosphere filled with youthful zeal and international camaraderie, the former Governor expressed pride in the role Lagos continues to play as a trailblazer in sports infrastructure and talent development across Africa.

“At a time when sports talent is becoming a global currency, we are not dealing with a hobby anymore. We are dealing with alternative professions, pathways for young people to build their careers and become global icons,” Fashola said.

He highlighted the growing importance of sports not only as a recreational activity but as a serious economic and social development tool capable of lifting young Nigerians into global relevance.

Speaking further, the former Governor lauded the Lagos State Government’s commitment to driving inclusivity and excellence in sports, noting that the state’s robust investment in youth engagement, infrastructure, and strategic partnerships is setting a model for other countries.

“Lagos sports is certainly in good hands. I can feel the energy and passion to make things better,” he declared.