Sanwo-Olu Inaugurates 44 Sports Association Chairmen to Build Champions from Grassroots Up
Lagos, Nigeria – September 1, 2026 — Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Tuesday inaugurated 44 chairmen of sports associations across the state, tasking them with identifying young talent early, developing it systematically, and creating clear pathways for athletes to compete and succeed at the highest levels.
In a statement shared on his official X account, the governor emphasized that sports in Lagos extends far beyond medals and trophies.
“Sports in Lagos goes beyond competition. It creates opportunities and can open doors to education, employment, entrepreneurship and economic growth,” Sanwo-Olu said.
He directed the new leadership to prioritise strong grassroots development, transparency, accountability and regular competitions.
Special attention, he noted, must be given to creating opportunities for women, girls, persons with disabilities and other emerging talents.
“Lagos has no shortage of talent. Our job is to build the systems and opportunities that can turn that talent into champions,” the governor declared, adding that he looks forward to the athletes the associations will develop and the champions they will produce.
The inauguration forms part of the broader push under Sanwo-Olu’s administration to strengthen Lagos’ sports ecosystem.
Earlier this year, the governor inaugurated the Board of the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund, charging it with mobilising resources for grassroots and school sports, upgrading facilities and attracting private-sector support.
By appointing fresh leadership across the various sports associations, the state aims to professionalise administration, improve talent pipelines and ensure that promising athletes—regardless of gender or physical ability—receive structured support from the community level upward.
Observers say the move aligns with Lagos’ recent sporting gains, including strong performances at national youth competitions, and reflects a deliberate strategy to convert the state’s abundant raw talent into sustainable success on national and international stages.
The new chairmen are expected to begin work immediately, focusing on scouting, coaching structures, regular competitions and inclusive programmes that open doors for underrepresented groups.
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