Local News

Stakeholders Call For Decisive Action Against Drug Abuse in Sports

The need to have one voice against the use of illicit substances by Nigerian athletes and the youths in the country to have a safe healthy environment has once again come to the front burner at the recently held national symposium organized by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Lagos chapter with collaboration with the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Defence Headquarters, Nigeria Police, Lagos State Sports Commission and other relevant agencies in the country on the danger of using illicit and enhance drugs in sports.

Held at the prestigious Golfview Hotel & Conference Centre at GRA, Ikeja, Lagos, various speakers at the one-day event believe that the alarming surge in the use of illicit substances by the youths calls for concern.

Kudos were given to the leadership of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Police and other relevant agencies in the war against drug abuse in the country, while Nigerians were also enjoined to see the crusade as a war that must jointly be won.

Speaking on the topic “NDLEA, a Tool for an Enhanced Nigeria”, DCN Chinyerem Eziaghhihala, Deputy Commander, Drug Demand Reduction, NDLEA, raises the alarm that the pandemic is now affecting all sectors of Nigerian society, adding that with cannabis the most used substance, more young people, both male and female, are getting involved most frighteningly.

She said the NDLEA is not resting on its oars, and armed with its two broad mandates: Drug Supply Reduction and Drug Demand Reduction, the war is being won gradually as against what was obtainable in the past.

Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, who is also a co-convener of the symposium talked about the Role of the Nigeria Police Force in Sports Development in Nigeria. According to him, there is a biotic relationship between the Nigeria Police Force and sports development, as the police have contributed immensely to national sports achievement through many of its officers who have won laurels for the country.

CP Fayoade said the NPF plays its roles well in national sports development in several ways which include the provision of sports facilities, partnership with national sports federations, and providing security at sports events among others.

Dr. (Mrs) Yemisi Folasire, Head of Human Nutrition and Diabetic Public Health College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, who represented the Vice Chancellor of UI, in her presentation, Sports Nutrition and Doping emphasized the need for sportsmen and women to eat a good diet at all times, adding that the only way to keep elevating their game is through constant training.

Dr. Folasire submitted that “doping might provide a shortcut, but it is cheating – pure and simple.”

To the Chief Convener of the Symposium and chairman of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (Lagos Chapter), Ms. Olatutu Oladunni, diplomacy and security has been a binding force that complements each other amidst irreconcilable differences, adding that diplomacy plays critical roles that can’t be overlooked.

According to Oladunni, the first-ever female chairman of SWAN in the history of the association in the southwest of Nigeria, “A human existence is determined by a credible and structured security system and as a safe, secure atmosphere, it gives a reassured hope of flourishing, prospect and peace which however enhance healthy living.

“The effect does reflect in the prosperous nature and brand called sports which has now become a religion of unification and integration of races, colours and status.

“You will agree with me that, it’s been established over the years that the strong binding force for a nation’s existence, peace and flourishing is built around security and diplomatic ties, and this cannot be achieved without balanced foreign relations.

“In line with the commemoration of the International Olympic Committee, IOC, World Anti-Doping Agency, International Drug Law Enforcement Agency, and Word Health Organization, WHO, on securing the environment via advocacy against the use of illicit substances and initiating good collaborations with security agencies to help in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking we put this symposium together and I am so happy that it has been a huge success.

“This second edition of the Symposium/Campaign on Sports Diplomacy, Sports Security and Food Health is an “all-inclusive participation” of professionals across their major area of specialisations, most importantly, from security, diplomatic and health, to convey detailed re-orientation to sports federations, universities, our performing athletes who compete at global stage and youths who are groomed for future sports purpose, as they have been one of the major vulnerable of illicit substances over the years, using it as an energy enhancer.”

Several dignitaries were honoured by Olatutu Oladunni-led Lagos SWAN Executive during the event, among whom were Brigadier General Adegoke Adetuyi, Commander, 9 Brigade Battalion, CP Adegoke Fayoade, Lagos State Commissioner of Police, Lekan Fatodu, Director General, Lagos State Sports Commission, Alhaji Olanrewaju Adesokan of Surrycom Great Nigeria Limited, Sanni Oladunni, CEO of Mol Integrated Services Limited, Austine Oshioke, CEO, Desaju Homes and Security Limited.

Local News

Odu’a Group Supports South West Games 2025

– As Chairman Otunba Bimbo Ashiru Hails BAT-SWAG as Major Boost for Regional Sports Development

– Commends Organizers for Transgenerational Initiative

In yet another resounding endorsement, the Odu’a Investment Company Limited has thrown its weight behind the South West Games 2025, further solidifying the event’s place as a developmental force in Nigerian sports.

The ebullient Chairman of the Group, Otunba Bimbo Ashiru, commended the organizers for their foresight in launching what he described as a “great transgenerational initiative” aimed at nurturing talent and fostering regional unity.

Ashiru’s endorsement underscores the significance of the South West Games 2025, which includes the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BAT-SWAG) as a key sub-tournament. He emphasized the role of sports in regional development, youth empowerment, and economic growth, highlighting how such initiatives align with Odu’a Group’s commitment to sustainable progress across the six Southwestern states—Ekiti, Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo.

In his statement, Ashiru expressed deep admiration for the vision behind the games, noting its potential to redefine grassroots sports and create opportunities for young athletes. “This is a great transgenerational initiative that will leave a lasting impact on the region,” he stated.

“Sports have the power to unite, empower, and create economic opportunities, and the South West Games 2025 is a perfect vehicle for this transformation.”

The selection of Lagos as the host city also received commendation from Ashiru, who described the metropolis as the ideal venue due to its historical significance and vibrant sporting culture.

“Lagos, with its world-class infrastructure and rich history of sports excellence, provides the perfect setting for a tournament of this magnitude,” he remarked.

Ashiru highlighted the broader socio-economic impact of the games, noting that beyond the competition, it would create job opportunities, boost tourism, and promote community engagement. “The South West Games 2025 is not just about competition; it is a vehicle for economic growth, community development, and youth engagement,” he affirmed. “By investing in sports, we are investing in the future of our young talents and ensuring sustainable growth for generations to come.”

The Odu’a Group Chairman urged all stakeholders—including government agencies, corporate bodies, and sports enthusiasts—to rally behind the initiative and contribute to its success. “I commend the organizers for their dedication and vision in bringing this initiative to life,” Ashiru stated.

“This is a call to action for governments, private sector players, and individuals to support this noble cause and help shape the future of sports in the South West.”

With the backing of the Odu’a Group and key stakeholders like Chief Amaju Pinnick, the South West Games 2025 continues to gain momentum as one of the most anticipated sporting events in Nigeria. Ashiru’s endorsement reinforces the belief that the tournament will not only produce elite athletes but also serve as a blueprint for sustainable sports development in the region.

As the countdown to the games continues, the support of influential institutions like Odu’a Group signals a promising future for the event. With a shared vision of excellence, unity, and empowerment, the South West Games 2025 is poised to become a defining moment in Nigerian sports history.

Local News

Amaju Pinnick Backs South West Games 2025

– A Historic Sporting Revolution Unfolds as Ex-NFF Boss Declares BAT-SWAG a Game-Changer for Talent Development

In a resounding vote of confidence, former Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) President and FIFA Council Member, Amaju Melvin Pinnick, has officially endorsed the South West Games 2025, hailing the tournament as a groundbreaking platform for sports development, youth empowerment, and economic growth in Nigeria.

The highly anticipated competition, set to take place in Lagos, will feature the Bola Ahmed Tinubu Southwest Alliance Games (BAT-SWAG) as its key sub-tournament.

Pinnick, in an endorsement letter addressed to Practagali Limited, the organizers of the South West Games 2025, lauded the initiative as a catalyst for a new era of athletic excellence in Nigeria’s southwestern region. “With great enthusiasm and a firm belief in the power of sports, I proudly extend my wholehearted endorsement of the South West Games 2025, including its key sub-tournament, the Bola Ahmed Tinubu South West Alliance Games.

With a vision that extends beyond mere competition, Pinnick emphasized the transformational impact of the games on the six Southwestern states—Ekiti, Lagos, Osun, Ondo, Ogun, and Oyo—where the tournament will unearth and groom the next generation of elite athletes. “This initiative is a game-changer for sports development, talent discovery, and youth empowerment across the six Southwestern states,” he noted. “More than just a competition, these games will serve as a breeding ground for the next generation of elite athletes while fostering unity, discipline, and national pride.”

The former NFF boss underscored the significance of Lagos as the host city, describing it as both a strategic and symbolic choice. “As the epicenter of Nigerian sports, Lagos boasts world-class infrastructure, a rich sporting heritage, and an unmatched passion for athletics. Its dynamic energy and cosmopolitan spirit make it the ideal stage to usher in a new era of sporting excellence in the region,” Pinnick affirmed.

More than just a sporting event, Pinnick highlighted the economic and career opportunities that the games would unlock for young athletes and stakeholders in the sports ecosystem. “Beyond the thrill of competition, the South West Games 2025 will serve as a catalyst for economic growth, career opportunities, and youth engagement. This is not just a tournament—it is the foundation of a lasting legacy,” he enthused.

Reflecting on the long-term significance of the event, Pinnick declared that the competition would be etched in history as a defining moment for Nigerian sports. “This tournament, no doubt, will not only serve as a paradigm shift but will go down in the annals of history as one of the most pleasurable, memorable, and potent platforms for talent conditioning, nurturing, and development.”

Pinnick commended Practagali Limited for its vision and urged all stakeholders—including government institutions, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to rally behind the project to ensure its success. “I commend Practagali Limited for spearheading this visionary initiative and urging all stakeholders—governments, corporate organizations, and sports enthusiasts—to lend their full support. Together, we can make history and redefine the future of sports in Nigeria,” he stated.

Pinnick’s endorsement of the South West Games 2025 is a testament to his unwavering dedication to the advancement of Nigerian sports. As a FIFA Council Member and CAF Executive Committee Member, his influence in the global football landscape adds further weight to his backing of this monumental event. His role as Chairman of the Brownhill Group further underscores his commitment to sports development, both at home and internationally.

With Pinnick’s endorsement adding credibility and momentum to the initiative, expectations are high for the South West Games 2025 to set new benchmarks for talent discovery, grassroots sports development, and regional integration. The countdown to history has begun, and all eyes are now on Lagos as it prepares to host what promises to be a transformative sporting spectacle.

As Nigeria continues to harness the power of sports as a tool for national development, Pinnick’s rallying call for unity and investment in grassroots talent serves as an inspiration to all. The South West Games 2025 is not just an event, he said, it is the dawn of a new era in Nigerian sports.

Local News

Loveworld Incorporated Commits N50m To Support National Sports Commission’s Athletes Grants Initiative

The National Sports Commission (NSC) has received a significant boost for its Athletes Development Grant Initiative, with Loveworld Incorporated, also known as Christ Embassy, pledging a ₦50 million support grant.

This commitment was made during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the church to the Director General of the NSC, Hon. Bukola Olopade, at his office.

The delegation, led by Dr. Daystar Oyakhilome and Pastor T.T. Temisan, affirmed the church’s dedication to partnering with the NSC in advancing Nigerian sports.

Hon. Bukola Olopade, the Director General of the NSC, expressed profound gratitude for the generous support and swift alignment of the church with the commission’s vision.

“I want to thank Pastor Chris Oyakhilome for this gesture of love and collaboration from his church. This shows that religious bodies are beginning to understand the vision of Mr. President and the NSC Chairman, Mallam Shehu Dikko, in building a sustainable sports economy driven primarily by the private sector,” he said.

He further emphasized the impact of the donation, noting, “This commitment is truly divine. To come forward and support our Athletes Grants with such a significant amount is commendable. This will take care of at least six indigenous athletes who struggle to represent our great country. I know the Chairman will be overwhelmed with gratitude, and I urge more people to emulate what Pastor Chris is doing.”

Dr. Daystar Oyakhilome highlighted the church’s readiness to support the commission in the areas of sports facility development and financial assistance across various sports.

“As a body of Christ, we believe our motto of ‘giving life a meaning’ should also be reflected in sports. This is why we are making this commitment, and we are open to doing even more to strengthen our relationship with the NSC as the apex body of sports in Nigeria,” he stated.

With this landmark contribution, Loveworld Incorporated reinforces the growing synergy the NSC seeks to build with organizations, including faith-based organizations, to drive forward Nigeria’s ambition for a thriving, private-sector-driven sports economy.