The Lagos State Government has partnered with First Bank of Nigeria Plc to commit N6m to grassroots sports development across the state.
The investment was made through the third edition of Sporty Lagos 3.0, an initiative organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development.
First Bank contributed N5m in cash prizes, while Honourable Steve Ogundipe, representing Oshodi/Isolo Federal Constituency, donated N1m to the programme.
Young athletes, sports enthusiasts, coaches, and club owners from across Lagos’s 57 Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas competed in 15 sporting disciplines over the weekend.
The competitions featured football, basketball, volleyball, handball, table tennis, lawn tennis, chess, boxing, darts, ayo olopon, ludo, snooker, judo, wrestling, and weightlifting.
Adebanji Atewogboye, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development, expressed satisfaction with the programme’s success.
“This programme is aimed at creating a platform for youths and sports professionals — sportsmen and women, coaches, club managers, owners, and enthusiasts across Lagos State,” he told PUNCH Sports Extra.
“It is a great feeling to see this event come to life, and we are grateful that sponsorship is focusing on grassroots development. First Bank of Nigeria has shown great vision by donating N5m in cash prizes to uplift the spirits of Lagos youths.”
Atewogboye assured participants that future editions would be improved, reiterating Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to fostering unity, social cohesion, and a strong sporting culture across the state.
One of the attendees, Aniocha Benjamin, who came with his sons, praised the initiative.
“This is beautiful. My sons love basketball and they are very happy to be here. Next year, I will ensure they participate fully,” Benjamin said.
“With initiatives like this, families can relax and have peace of mind despite the insecurity in the country. You come here, have fun, and go back home safely. Kudos to the Lagos State Government and the Office of the Senior Special Assistant for bringing such activities to Lagosians.”
The event also showcased PS5 games, snooker, and various recreational activities alongside traditional sports, reinforcing Lagos State’s position as Nigeria’s sporting hub while promoting youth development, healthy living, and community bonding.
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