Fashola urges investment in sports as global career path
…applauds Lagos’ development drive
Former Lagos State Governor, Babatunde Raji Fashola, SAN, has emphasized the vast global prospects in the sports industry, praising the Lagos State Government for its visionary approach to youth empowerment and sports development.
Fashola spoke at the 2025 International Table Tennis Federation (ITTF) Africa Youth Cup, tagged the BRF Cup, held at the Molade Okoya-Thomas Indoor Sports Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, Lagos.
In an atmosphere charged with youthful energy and international camaraderie, the former governor expressed pride in Lagos’ role as a leader in sports infrastructure and talent development across Africa.
“At a time when sports talent is becoming a global currency, we are not dealing with a hobby anymore. We are dealing with alternative professions, pathways for young people to build their careers and become global icons,” Fashola said.
He stressed that sports should be recognised as a vital economic and social development tool capable of elevating young Nigerians to global relevance.
Fashola also commended the Lagos State Government for driving inclusivity and excellence in sports, noting that its investments in youth engagement, infrastructure, and strategic partnerships serve as a model for other regions.
“Lagos sports is certainly in good hands. I can feel the energy and passion to make things better,” he added.
