Sports
Amusan returns in November for the 2nd Tobi/Abiola Ijebu Sprint & Relays Meet
After crowning a challenging season with a Diamond League trophy in 100m hurdles in Eugene, USA on Sunday, Tobi Amusan is set to return to Nigeria in November to do what she loves doing best, giving the younger ones opportunities to showcase their talents.
And from November 3rd to the 4th, young athletes from all the nooks and crannies of Ogun State will converge at the iconic Otunba Dipo Dina stadium, Ijebu-Ode for the second edition of the Tobi/Abiola Ijebu Sprint and Relays Meet.
Amusan and Abiola Onakoya are beneficiaries of youth development programmes in Ogun State which led to their discovery as young athletes, they both got scholarships to study at the University of El-Paso, in Texas, USA.
Before their graduation from the school, both represented Team Nigeria at the youth, junior, and senior levels.
After winning laurels for Nigeria and being a good ambassador of the country, they believed the best way they could give back to their community is to give younger ones opportunities.
This edition has the support of the His Excellency the Executive Governor of Ogun State Dapo Abiodun who named Amusan Ogun State Youth Ambassador after she broke the 100m hurdles record at the 2022 World Championships in Eugene.
Amusan who also won the gold medal in the event is the first and only Nigerian to win a gold medal in the World Athletics Championships since the inaugural edition in 1983.
It is in recognition of her contributions to the growth of athletics from the grassroots and also her achievements that earned Amusan the ambassadorial role.
Unlike the inaugural edition which was limited to Ijebu-Ode, this second edition has the blessing of the Ogun State Government, so it will cover all the schools from across the state.
Apart from certificates and medals winner of this edition will also go home with spike shoes, canvas, and other items, aside from the prizes that will be awarded to winning schools.
Sports
Governor Dapo Abiodun Has Reawakened the Sleeping Giant in Sports in Ogun State, Says Hon. Bukola Olopade
Director General of the National Sports Commission, Hon. Bukola Olopade, has stated that Ogun State is witnessing a transformative era in sports development under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, as the state prepares to host the 22nd National Sports Festival, dubbed “Ogun 2024.”
Speaking about the governor’s achievements, Hon. Olopade stated, “Even before the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) was constituted, when Nilayo Sports Management bidded on behalf of Ogun State, it was evident Ogun was ready. During recent inspections, technical directors from various states applauded the facilities they saw. It was gratifying to know Ogun State’s readiness was evident.”
Reflecting on past challenges, the former commissioner for sports in Ogun, said the legacy he left after office was destroyed and sports looked doomed “until Governor Dapo Abiodun started reawakening the sleeping giant in sports.”
Governor Abiodun’s administration has prioritized youth empowerment through sports, focusing on grassroots promotion, infrastructure development and talent development. His vision for sports transcends mere entertainment, aiming to build an industry that empowers the youth and attracts investments to Ogun State.
Preparations for the National Sports Festival have been ongoing in the State, with massive renovations and constructions across the state. The MKO Abiola International Stadium, Kuto, Abeokuta has seen its VIP section upgraded, the football pitch replaced, tracks have undergone refurbishment, and a brand-new swimming pool is being constructed.
Two state-of-the-art tennis courts and handball courts have been built to reduce reliance on the Abeokuta Sports Club facilities, while the Alake Sports Complex, Ijeja, Abeokuta has been undergoing comprehensive renovation.
Hon. Olopade emphasized the governor’s commitment to sustaining and advancing Ogun State’s sporting legacy. “Governor Abiodun’s investments in sports and youth empowerment are unparalleled. His administration has a clear vision to turn sports into a thriving industry, and the successful bid to host Ogun 2024 is a testament to his dedication.”
With the festival drawing closer, Ogun State’s commitment to excellence is evident. Governor Dapo Abiodun’s efforts have not only revived sports in the state but also laid the foundation for a lasting legacy that will benefit generations to come.
Gateway Games 2024 has promises written all over it, to be a landmark event, showcasing the state’s readiness and Governor Abiodun’s transformative impact on sports development.
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