The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has praised the Erico Sports Legacy Foundation for its commitment to grassroots basketball development through a youth training programme designed to nurture future sporting talents.
Eko Hot News reports that the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu, commended the initiative during the Elite Top 50 Basketball Camp held at the Ilupeju Basketball Court in Lagos.
The grassroots development programme brought together talented basketball players under the age of 18 for intensive training aimed at improving their skills and preparing them for higher levels of competition.
Representing the Director-General at the event, the Director of Sports, Mr. Traveh Nunayon, described the camp as a commendable effort to strengthen basketball development in Lagos State.
He said the programme reflects the importance of giving back to the community while nurturing young athletes with the potential to excel in the sport.
Nunayon noted that the Ilupeju Basketball Court has produced several outstanding basketball players who have represented Nigeria on the international stage.
He said the initiative by former basketball player Michael Erico demonstrates his commitment to helping young athletes follow the same path that shaped his own sporting career.
According to him, the basketball clinic aligns with the Lagos State Government’s THEMES+ Development Agenda, which promotes youth empowerment and sports development.
“We appreciate this gesture of giving back to society. This clinic has contributed significantly to basketball development, not only in Mushin but across Lagos State,” he said.
He added that many members of Lagos State’s grassroots basketball teams began their careers at the Ilupeju Basketball Court, making the venue an important centre for talent discovery.
Speaking at the event, the Convener of the Elite Top 50 Basketball Camp, Mr. Michael Erico, described the programme as a rewarding opportunity to impact young lives.
He said returning to the court where he began his basketball journey made the initiative even more meaningful.
According to Erico, the camp is designed to improve the technical abilities, confidence and mindset of young players while preparing them for future opportunities.
He explained that participants underwent intensive training sessions focused on basketball fundamentals and advanced playing techniques.
Erico disclosed that outstanding players identified during the programme would receive opportunities to showcase their talents before international basketball scouts and development organisations.
He said the foundation plans to expose selected athletes to basketball opportunities in the United States, Europe and other countries interested in discovering young Nigerian talents.
The initiative, he added, is intended to create pathways for gifted players to pursue professional careers through proper guidance and international exposure.
One of the participants, Master Oluwatobiloba of Freedom Way Basketball Club, expressed appreciation to the Erico Sports Legacy Foundation for organising the development camp.
He said the training sessions helped him improve his understanding of the game while introducing him to new techniques that would enhance his performance on the court.
According to him, the camp provided valuable lessons on both the basic and advanced aspects of basketball, making it a memorable learning experience.
Participants also had the opportunity to interact with experienced coaches and mentors who shared practical knowledge on discipline, teamwork and personal development.
The Elite Top 50 Basketball Camp attracted young athletes from different basketball clubs and communities, reinforcing its role as an important platform for talent identification and development.
Sports stakeholders at the event praised the foundation for investing in youth development and promoting basketball at the grassroots level.
They noted that sustained investment in community-based sports programmes would contribute to discovering more talented athletes capable of representing Lagos State and Nigeria in international competitions.
The Lagos State Sports Commission reaffirmed its commitment to supporting initiatives that promote youth engagement, sports excellence and grassroots talent development across the state.
Officials said partnerships with private organisations and sports foundations remain essential to expanding opportunities for young athletes and strengthening Lagos’ position as a leading sports hub in Nigeria.
