Sanwo-Olu Says Eko 2026 ‘ll Strengthen Lagos’ Leadership in Sports Devt

Babajide Sanwo-Olu has reaffirmed Lagos State's dedication to maintaining its leadership in sports development, asserting that the forthcoming National Intermediate Games, known as Eko 2026, will mark a significant milestone in the state's sporting endeavors. During the inauguration of 44 chairmen of sports associations in Lagos, the governor highlighted that this multi-sport event is not merely a competition but a strategic move to cultivate young athletes throughout the nation.

Eko 2026 aims to offer a platform for emerging talents to demonstrate their abilities, gain attention from national handlers, and embark on their path towards continental and global success.

As youth development lies at the core of the state's T.H.E.M.E.S Agenda, Sanwo-Olu pledged to personally oversee the renovation of sports facilities across Lagos in anticipation of the event. He pointed to the city's past triumphs in national competitions as proof of what can be achieved when talent is backed by a functional system.

The governor emphasized the necessity for Lagos to establish a smooth trajectory from educational institutions to training grounds, competitions, and ultimately to national and international arenas.

Sanwo-Olu called upon the newly appointed chairmen to prioritize grassroots development by identifying promising talents and establishing robust systems that will transform them into champions. He described their appointment as a crucial step towards redefining sports administration in Lagos, asserting that the city's reputation as a hub for excellence should extend beyond talent discovery to include training opportunities, competitive platforms, and institutional frameworks that ensure lasting success.

For the governor, sports are more than mere pastime; they are a means of instilling discipline, education, employment, entrepreneurship, and economic advancement. Eko 2026, he noted, would create opportunities across various sectors like hospitality, transportation, entertainment, media, technology, fitness, and sports medicine.

The Lagos governor stressed the importance of robust cooperation between the government and the private sector, highlighting that heightened private investment would lay a more solid foundation for sports and athlete development in Lagos. He also urged the chairmen to adhere to transparency, accountability, and discipline in their leadership, urging them to maintain active competition calendars and ensure inclusivity by providing opportunities for women, girls, persons with disabilities, and other underrepresented groups.