Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has issued a strong appeal to private sector stakeholders to join forces with the state government in developing sports and creating pathways for young talents.
Governor's Call for Collaborative Sports Development
The governor made this call on Thursday, December 19, 2025, during the opening ceremony of the Bosun Tijani Foundation Festive Basketball Tournament held at the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja, Abeokuta. Represented by his deputy, Mrs. Noimot Salako-Oyedele, Governor Abiodun emphasized that such partnerships are crucial to maintaining the positive momentum in the state's sporting scene.
He specifically highlighted the successful hosting of the National Sports Festival earlier in the year as a catalyst for increased sports activities across Ogun. "We are particularly excited about the new spirit of sportsmanship and collaboration this festival embodies," the governor stated. He urged individuals, associations, foundations, and corporate bodies to seize the opportunity to partner with the Ogun State Government in a collective effort to advance sports within the state and Nigeria at large.
Bosun Tijani's Youth Empowerment Initiative
The basketball tournament is the brainchild of the Minister of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, Dr. Bosun Tijani. The event attracted participating teams from several states, including Lagos, Katsina, Ogun, Osun, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
In his address, Dr. Tijani explained that the initiative was designed to uplift young people across Nigeria, using sports as a platform for self-expression, confidence building, and fostering community bonds. He noted that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is making deliberate investments in the future of the youth and the nation.
"When young people are supported in environments like this, they reveal their potential not only as athletes but as leaders and contributors to society," Tijani said. He added that the festive tournament was created to promote inclusion, creativity, and positive engagement, ensuring opportunities for growth are accessible to all young people, irrespective of their background.
Sustaining Momentum for Community Cohesion
The festival continues with a series of competitive matches aimed at promoting sportsmanship, youth development, and community cohesion. Governor Abiodun commended Dr. Tijani for leveraging sports as a tool for youth empowerment and talent development.
This event underscores a growing recognition in Ogun State of the vital role sports play in societal development, following the state's recent showcase as a capable host for major national sporting events. The call for collaboration sets the stage for increased private sector involvement in building sustainable sports infrastructure and programs for Nigerian youth.
