The Lagos State Government has forged a strategic partnership with leading tech company TECNO to enhance football infrastructure across the state.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the first facility, located at Sura in Lagos Island, marks a significant step toward promoting grassroots football and nurturing local talent.
Speaking at the event, Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), emphasized the successful collaboration between the private sector and the government.
According to Fatodu, the public-private partnership (PPP) aims to identify and develop football prospects, providing them with state-of-the-art training centers. “These facilities will serve as platforms for aspiring athletes to compete at the highest levels and bring honor to Nigeria,” he said.
“We are committed to creating deserving and high-quality astroturf pitches for our communities,” stated Fatodu.
The enthusiastic response from the community underscores their support for this initiative.
Mobolaji Ogunlende, Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, highlighted the project’s alignment with the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus agenda, emphasizing social inclusion and sports development. Ogunlende reaffirmed Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to leaving no one behind.
“Football, as a powerful tool for engaging youth positively, will keep them away from the streets and provide opportunities to showcase their talents on a global stage. While the government cannot shoulder this responsibility alone, TECNO’s involvement in enhancing infrastructure is commendable.”
Charles Edosomwan, TECNO’s representative, expressed the company’s dedication to empowering young talents. Their ambitious goal is to revitalize 100 football pitches across Africa, starting with Lagos.
This partnership signifies a new era for football development in Lagos, where underutilized fields will transform into thriving training centers, fostering local talent and contributing to the nation’s sporting success.