Sanwo-Olu Stimulates Lagos Wellness Culture Through Lagos Active Challeng

To address the rising concerns of sedentary lifestyles and the growing need for accessible health and wellness programmes in Lagos, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has supported the kickoff of the Lagos Active Challenge, an initiative designed to promote physical well-being and an active lifestyle in different communities. Organized by the Lagos State Sports Commission, this monthly Initiative aims to promote enhanced public health by encouraging participants to showcase their stamina, strength, and endurance through specially designed physical activities, motivating Lagosians to prioritise a healthy lifestyle as part of their daily lives.

The program, which kicked off this weekend, saw thousands of Lagos residents participating in various strength and stamina challenges across multiple locations in the state. The competition, held simultaneously in Obanikoro, Ifako Ijaiye, Adekunle, Yaba, Isolo, Agege, and Ebute Metta, attracted participants of varying demographics. Participants engaged in exercises such as push-ups, squats, and endurance runs, receiving exciting gifts ranging from fitness gear to sponsored health screenings.

Mr. Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, expressed enthusiasm about the initiative’s potential impact: “The Lagos Active Challenge embodies Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision for a healthier, more active Lagos. The challenge’s structure encourages both individual achievements and group participation, making it a community-centered fitness program. We are excited to see how this initiative will motivate Lagosians to embrace well-being as a way of life,” said Fatodu.

One of the prize winners, Mrs Adebola Ogunlesi, a 45-year-old business owner from Ebute Metta, shared her experience: “Winning was a huge bonus, but what really stood out was the encouragement from everyone around me. I never thought I could complete 50 push-ups. This challenge allowed me to push myself, and I feel great knowing I can keep this up,” she said, beaming with pride after receiving his award.

Beyond immediate health benefits, the Lagos Active Challenge aims to establish enduring habits that could lead to improved public health outcomes. By expanding to new communities each month, the initiative aspires to ignite a state-wide wellness drive. The program’s accessibility is expected to empower residents to take proactive measures to reduce the risk of lifestyle-related diseases such as hypertension, obesity, and diabetes.

The Lagos State Football Association (LSFA) is proud to announce the inaugural Lagos Elite Football, set to kick off next year, January 4th, 2025, at the prestigious Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan and the Legacy Pitch inside the National Stadium Surulere – Lagos.

The LSFA is thrilled to organise this first-ever Lagos Elite Football, an exciting football fiesta, #NewyearNewfootball is designed to bring together top football clubs in Lagos in a friendly yet competitive environment.

This event will serve as a unique platform where elite clubs from Lagos will compete, fostering a spirit of camaraderie while allowing players to showcase their talents in front of football enthusiasts and stakeholders. The primary objective of the tournament is to create an atmosphere that promotes healthy competition among Lagos football clubs, while also providing critical opportunities for players to display their skills and grow within a professional setting.

The Lagos Elite Football Tournament will offer participating teams and players significant media exposure, with the matches being broadcasted live on YouTube and through extensive social media coverage. The final four will be aired live on Sports TV channels, ensuring wide-reaching viewership and providing players with a platform to be seen by fans and scouts alike.

“This tournament is designed to be more than just a competition – it is an opportunity to unite the football community in Lagos while providing the players with a stage to grow and develop,” said Hajji Gafar, the chairman, Lagos State Football Association.

Participating clubs confirmed for the 2025 edition include, Mavlon FC, Real Sapphire FC, Nath Boys, Broad City FC, 36 Lion FC and Seamoriow football club.

By exploring diverse media channels, including live streaming, social media, and television broadcasts, the tournament is set to captivate football fans across the nation. The LSFA is committed to developing a sustainable football ecosystem in Lagos, and this tournament is a key part of that vision.

Join us as we celebrate football, talent, and community in this groundbreaking event! We invite football fans, sponsors, and stakeholders to join us in this journey as we aim to create a lasting legacy for Nigerian football talent on the global stage.

Flamengo football club of Brazil wizKid, Shola Ogundana, has made a significant contribution to the development of grassroots football in his home state, Ekiti.

In a gesture that embodies his commitment to giving back, Ogundana, in partnership with Beyond Limits Football Academy, donated footballs, educational materials, and substantial funds to both the Ekiti State football Association and all the 16 local football councils.

The generous donation of the books and balls was done inside the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado Ekiti, during the grand finale of the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup 2024, an annual Under-15 football competition that has been instrumental in the discovery of young talents in Ekiti State.

Ogundana who was scouted during the reigns of Mr. Bayo Olanlege as the Chairman of the Ekiti State Football Association, achieved remarkable success, earning a permanent transfer to Brazilian giants Flamengo FC from Beyond Limits Football Academy Ikenne, Ogun State, after impressing scouts at the Viareggio youth tournament.

The impact of Ogundana’s donation will not only be felt for years to come, it is a testament to  the power of sports to transform lives. His journey from Omuo- Ekiti to the pinnacle of South American football serves as an inspiration to aspiring young players.

In the same vein, as Ekiti State continues to strive to produce talented footballers, as witnessed with the Prof Akin Oyebode Cup 2024, Ogundana’s donations will serve as an inspiration for generations to come.