National Telescope national telescope newspaper
By Chibuzor Alli, LAGOS |
The Lagos State Government has commissioned the Babajide Sanwo-Olu Boxing Gymnasium at Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, as part of its commitment to youth empowerment and sports development.
The project, a collaboration between the Lagos State Government and Yucateco Boxing Promotions, aims to provide young athletes with a well-equipped facility to develop their skills and compete at international levels.
Speaking at the commissioning, Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Lekan Fatodu, emphasized the role of sports in youth empowerment.
“There is no better way to engage and empower young people than by providing them with opportunities to channel their energy positively. Boxing is a unique sport in our community, and with this facility, we can produce champions,” Fatodu said.
Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, also highlighted the importance of structured engagement for young people.
“We cannot reach all youths at once, but by engaging them in groups, we can take them off the streets and give them a productive path. This gym provides an avenue for aspiring boxers to train, refine their skills, and compete at a global level,” he noted.
He further stressed the need for more partnerships to replicate similar facilities across the five divisions of Lagos State, ensuring that more young people can benefit from structured sports programs.
The Lagos State Government commended Imadu Omonlei Yakubu, Chief Executive Officer of Yucateco Boxing Promotions, for his support in making the project a reality. Fatodu described the initiative as a significant step toward strengthening Lagos’ dominance in boxing and grooming future champions.
With this new gym, Lagos continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing sports as a tool for youth empowerment, creating pathways for young talents to excel both locally and internationally.
