Lagos Sports Commission dissolves senior team over poor performance, misconduct
The Lagos State Sports Commission has officially dissolved the Senior Team Lagos, citing the need for a fresh start to foster discipline, merit, and competitiveness within the state’s sports ecosystem.
Announcing the decision, the Director General of the Commission, Lekan Fatodu, described the move as necessary in light of the team’s disappointing performances at recent National Sports Festivals — notably the 2020 edition and the Gateway 2024 games.
“This decision was not taken lightly. It was informed by the underwhelming outcomes of Senior Team Lagos at the National Sports Festival and the need to reposition Lagos sports for excellence,” he said.
The dissolution comes in the wake of a protest staged at the Alausa Secretariat by individuals claiming to be members of the now-dissolved team. They were reportedly demanding financial rewards for their appearances at the festivals. The Commission, however, rejected these demands as baseless and undeserved.
According to the Commission, rewards for outstanding achievements are discretionary and not automatic entitlements. It reaffirmed that the state government has consistently met its obligations, including athlete allowances, welfare packages, and training support during all major competitions.
“It is disheartening that some individuals, including impostors parading themselves as spokespersons of the dissolved team, are attempting to mislead the public,” the DG stated. “The generosity of Mr. Governor towards Lagos athletes must never be taken for granted or abused.”
The Commission further disclosed that intelligence reports indicated the protest was deliberately orchestrated to coincide with the announcement that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu would be hosting the victorious Under-15 Team Lagos. The junior team recently made history by clinching the championship trophy at a national competition in Asaba.
The protest also reportedly turned violent, with a staff member of the Commission being assaulted. The DG condemned the act and promised that those responsible would face legal consequences.
Reiterating the government’s commitment to nurturing young, talented athletes, the Commission emphasized that discipline and due process remain the bedrock of sports development in Lagos.
“The dissolution of Senior Team Lagos marks a new chapter. We are building a system that values hard work, not entitlement. The focus is now on empowering the next generation of athletes to make the state proud,” the DG concluded.
