The Lagos State Government has restated its commitment to strengthening sports development and creating opportunities for youth empowerment through structured sporting activities across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the assurance was given at the finals of the third edition of the Lagos Zen Archery International Open Tournament held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Lagos, where officials highlighted sports as a key driver of talent development, inclusion, and economic engagement.
The Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Hon. Lekan Fatodu, said the government remains committed to providing an enabling environment for all sporting disciplines to thrive under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration. He noted that sustained investment in competitions helps athletes grow, build skills, and compete at higher levels.
Fatodu commended the organisers of the Zen Archery Club for raising the profile of archery in Nigeria and across Africa. He added that the event reflects what can be achieved through consistency, vision, and collaboration between stakeholders in sports development.
The tournament attracted participants from several African countries, including Chad, Zimbabwe, Guinea, and Côte d’Ivoire, alongside Nigerian clubs. Officials described the turnout as a sign of growing international recognition for the sport within the region.
The President of the Archery Federation, Mr. Abdullahi Baba, praised the improved standard of competition and Nigeria’s growing performance in archery since its international debut in 2021. He also confirmed plans for upcoming regional and continental championships to further expand participation.
He noted that efforts are underway to introduce archery into secondary schools nationwide to discover new talents and strengthen grassroots development.
The Patron of Zen Archery, Ms. Ayotola Jagun, said the sport is gaining wider acceptance in Nigeria, particularly among young people, through structured training and competitions. She added that archery offers opportunities for discipline, focus, and personal development.
Jagun called for stronger collaboration between government, corporate sponsors, and stakeholders to sustain growth in the sport and expand opportunities for emerging athletes.
The championship concluded with 23 gold medal winners across multiple categories, including events in the 30-metre barebow and 70-metre recurve divisions. Athletes from Côte d’Ivoire dominated several categories, including both individual and mixed events.
