Sanwo-Olu Rewards Lagos Athletes for Historic National Youth Games Victory

The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has rewarded members of Team Lagos following their outstanding performance at the 2025 National Youth Games held in Asaba, Delta State, where Lagos topped the medal table for the first time in the history of the under-15 competition.

Team Lagos emerged overall champions of the 9th edition of the Games, dethroning hosts Delta State after winning a total of 110 medals, comprising 52 gold, 32 silver, and 26 bronze.

At a special reception held in honour of the athletes, coaches, and officials at the Lagos House, Ikeja, on Friday, Governor Sanwo-Olu commended the youngsters for their exceptional performance, describing the victory as a landmark achievement in the state’s sporting history. He also lauded the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) under the leadership of its Director-General, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, for the management and coordination that led to the record-breaking feat.

The sports-loving Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to nurturing young talents to attain their full potential, urging the athletes to remain focused while balancing sports with education. He expressed optimism that many of the young boys and girls would go on to represent Nigeria at both national and international competitions in the future.

Sanwo-Olu assured that the state government would continue to provide world-class sporting facilities and expand opportunities for youth to excel.

The highlight of the event was the Governor’s announcement of cash rewards for the athletes, coaches, and officials in recognition of their contributions to the team’s success. Each of the 41 individual gold medallists received ₦500,000, while pairs who won gold received ₦500,000 per team. Gold medallists in team sports were rewarded with ₦1 million each.

For silver medallists, individual winners received ₦300,000, doubles teams received ₦300,000, and team event winners were given ₦700,000. Bronze medallists also benefited, with 19 individual winners receiving ₦250,000 each, doubles winners receiving ₦250,000 per team, and team event bronze winners receiving ₦500,000.

In addition, athletes who did not win medals were rewarded with ₦100,000 each, while 61 coaches received ₦300,000 each. The Governor further appreciated the management of the Lagos State Sports Commission with a ₦25 million grant.

Governor Sanwo-Olu’s gesture, described as unprecedented, underscores his administration’s unwavering commitment to youth development and sports excellence as a foundation for building future champions and leaders.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, noted that the Governor’s gesture went beyond financial incentives, describing it as “an experience of a lifetime that will continue to inspire the young athletes.” He praised Governor Sanwo-Olu’s belief in the potential of Lagos youths and his consistent investment in both infrastructure and human development through sports.

Dignitaries present at the reception included the Chairman, House Committee on Youth, Sports and Social Development, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya; the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin; the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende; the Commissioner for Basic and Secondary Education, Hon. Jamiu Alli-Balogun; and the Senior Special Assistant to the President, Hon. Adeyinka Adeboye, among other top government officials and representatives of corporate organisations.