As the competition enters its fifth day on Wednesday, the Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Oluwatoyin Gafaar, commended the performances of the players of the Lagos team during the ongoing 7th National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.
Gafaar said the results released on Tuesday after the day’s proceedings showed that all athletes were good ambassadors for the state, adding that more medals would be won as the tournament progressed.
“I am satisfied with the results of my players so far. They make us proud. I think they are responding very well to what we have thrown at them through good training,” he said.
The DG highlighted the contribution of the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, whose assistance helped make the trip to the Games successful and possible,
According to him, the generosity of the Governor has shown that he is driving us to this point, and I am happy that the children are reciprocating with their achievements and showing our dear governor that he is not supporting them for nothing.
“As a responsible father, he was very supportive in everything we did,” he said.
Gafaar highlighted the rule-abiding policy in Lagos that enabled most members of the Lagos squad to overcome screening hurdles before the start of the tournament on Saturday.
“Lagos shows class in everything we do. That’s why we call ourselves a “Center of Excellence”. We will maintain our profile. We know that most athletes are getting older and there should be a program to replace older athletes. This is why we are so committed to dedicating more resources to this development program.
“Everyone knows that in Lagos State we do not cut corners on costs. Our development program policy is realistic, and we must ensure that the rules of the game are followed scrupulously and to the letter.
Gafaar also revealed the mutual working relationship between the Sports Commission and various clubs in Lagos and commended the clubs for supporting the Commission to ensure a successful performance at the 7th National Youth Games.
“I must commend Ikoyi Club, Lagos Country Club in Ikeja and other private clubs in Lagos who believe in our grassroots programs. They supported our public-private partnership to promote sports development in the state.
“We create a strong synergy with our stakeholders, especially parents. I would like to congratulate all the parents of these children for believing in us and sending their children to take part in the Youth Games. I’m glad some of them are here. They have come from Lagos to see for themselves, and I think they are happy to see their children making the entire state proud. I must say that I really appreciate all the parents for their support,” said Gafaar.
Team Lagos are second on the official medal table as at Tuesday night with 12 gold, 9 silver and 8 bronze behind Delta who are leading with 21 gold, 14 silver and 9 bronze, while Team Bayelsa are in the third position with 9 gold, 2 silver and 6 bronze medals.
The action continues across sports at various centres on Wednesday.
