Olopade hails Gov Abiodun, BetKing for supporting Wheelchair Basketball
…assures Ogun will deliver world-class sports festival in May
The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Honourable Bukola Olopade, has commended the Government of Ogun State and BetKing for their outstanding support in hosting the BetKing 3×3 National Wheelchair Basketball Championship, currently ongoing at the Alake Sports Centre in Ijeja, Abeokuta.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Olopade expressed his admiration for the steady growth of wheelchair basketball in Nigeria, praising the federation, private sector sponsors, and government agencies for their dedication and commitment.
“I fell in love with this sport 15 years ago, and I am here to give my full support to this championship,” he said. “I’ve been very impressed with what I’ve seen. It shows the growth of wheelchair basketball. Seyi Johnson and the federation board members are doing an amazing job. This event has been organized to select the best players who will represent Nigeria in Agadir in two months, so it deserves the attention it’s getting.”
The NSC DG also noted the increased participation and competitiveness of more state teams this year. “I’ve seen states with formidable teams here, which wasn’t the case a few years ago. Traditional powerhouses like Oyo, Lagos, and Delta must watch out.”
Highlighting the importance of inclusivity in sports, he emphasized that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda supports initiatives that create opportunities for persons with disabilities.
“These are determined individuals who form an integral part of our RHINSE initiative — everyone has a place in fostering sports development,” he added.
Olopade praised the transformation of the Alake Sports Centre and commended Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, for his commitment to sports development. “The governor is a man I have come to admire deeply. What this arena has become in just one year reflects the state’s dedication to advancing sports. His presence at this competition further shows Ogun State’s readiness to host a world-class National Sports Festival.”
He also appreciated BetKing’s continued sponsorship of wheelchair basketball. “One cannot overstate what BetKing has done for this sport over the last five years. Their consistent support has been massive, and we sincerely thank them for it.”
