The South West Development Association (SOWEGA) has applauded the Ogun State Government and Governor Dapo Abiodun for securing the hosting rights of the 22nd National Sports Festival, describing the move as a major stride towards youth empowerment and national unity.
Chairman of the Board of Trustees of SOWEGA, Dr. Babatunde Olokun, gave the commendation in a statement made available to journalists.
He lauded Governor Abiodun for “annexing the opportunity of bringing this sport event to our state for the benefit of not only the youths of the state but also of the country.”
Olokun described sports as a critical platform for youth development, nation-building, and social integration.
“This initiative underscores the importance accorded to sports, which is vital to nation-building, promoting youth development, and fostering national unity,” he stated.
He noted that by hosting the multi-sport event, which will attract athletes from across the country, Ogun State would not only boost its image as a destination for sporting excellence but also demonstrate its capacity to host major national events.
“Ogun State is contributing to the growth of talented athletes and promoting a healthier and more active society,” Olokun added.
Highlighting SOWEGA’s objectives, Olokun recalled that the association, established in 2012, had successfully organised major grassroots sporting events, including the maiden edition of the Ogun 2021 Local Olympics, tagged SOWEGA OGUN 2021.
He said the private sector-led initiative was designed to complement government efforts in youth development and to deploy sports as a special purpose vehicle (SPV) for zonal integration and development.
“SOWEGA aims to create opportunities for youth in the zone to embrace the values of leadership, teamwork, and goal achievement, while also discovering sporting talents that could thrive in the global arena of professional sports,” he noted.
The 22nd National Sports Festival is expected to bring together thousands of athletes from Nigeria’s 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, as Ogun State gears up to take centre stage in the celebration of sportsmanship and national cohesion.
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