LASG Inaugurates Olympic-Sized Swimming Pool and Sports Facilities at Rowe Park
Kehinde Adeleye
The administration of Governor Sanwo-Olu has taken another step towards transforming Lagos into a sports hub with the commissioning of an Olympic-sized swimming pool, complete with warm-up facilities and a 250-seat pavilion, at Rowe Park Sports Centre in Yaba.
It was gathered that the unveiling of the state-of-the-art swimming pool was accompanied by the inauguration of other sports amenities, including a handball court, volleyball court, and basketball court.
Governor Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, described the new facilities as symbols of the government’s dedication to promoting health, fitness, and community engagement among Lagos residents.
The Rowe Park Sports Centre upgrades align with the administration’s vision of creating opportunities for youth, encouraging active lifestyles, and fostering a culture of excellence in the state.
“This is Lagos, the Centre of Excellence, a state of aquatic spending, and the financial hub of Africa. When we talk about Nigeria, we talk about Lagos. This project reflects our unwavering commitment to providing world-class recreational and sports facilities for our residents”, he said.
Governor Sanwo-Olu extended his gratitude to the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF) for their instrumental role in facilitating the reconstruction of the swimming pool and rehabilitation of other facilities at Rowe Park Sports Centre through sponsorship.
The Governor also expressed appreciation to renowned sports philanthropist and elder statesman Chief Kessington Adebutu, along with the Lagos Lottery Board, for their generous contributions towards the realization of the project.
Sanwo-Olu said, “The Olympic Swimming pool alongside the warm pool and 250 seater spectators stand is a bold statement of the State’s resolve to promote physical well-being, future talent and create a space where individuals of all ages can come together to learn, to grow and to thrive. Swimming is not just a sport, it is a life skill that offers immense physical and mental health benefits”.
“This facility is designed to encourage our youth to take up swimming whether for fitness competition or leisure”, he noted.
Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), commended Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to improving sports infrastructure throughout the state.
Fatodu’s remarks came in light of the ongoing development of various sporting facilities across Lagos’ five divisions, with plans to commission some in the near future.
The LSSC is actively managing numerous facilities, including Rowe Park Sports Centre, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Mobolaji Johnson Arena, and Agege Stadium, among others.
These venues offer opportunities for athletes to hone their skills and pursue successful careers in their respective sports.
Fatodu emphasized the importance of collaboration between the public and private sectors in promoting sports and creating an environment conducive to talent development.
“Mr. Governor has told us it is important to provide opportunities and facilities because it is a powerful tool to save our young ones from crimes and criminality”, he added.
