The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has reaffirmed its commitment to using sports as a tool for youth development, as a team of young basketball players prepares to represent Nigeria at an international Under-12 tournament in Italy.
The Director-General of the Commission, Lekan Fatodu, made this known during a reception organised for Impact Kiddies Academy at the Teslim Balogun Stadium before the team’s departure for Matera, Italy.
Fatodu said the participation of the young athletes aligns with the state’s broader goal of nurturing sporting talent from an early age while ensuring that education remains a key part of their development.
According to him, Lagos State has continued to invest in grassroots sports through technical support, skills development programmes and improved sporting facilities within schools and communities.
He noted that exposing young athletes to international competitions helps build confidence, broaden their experience and prepare them for future careers in sports.
“We are committed to creating opportunities that allow young people to combine academics with sports while developing the discipline and confidence needed to compete at the highest level,” he said.
The sports commission boss encouraged the players to serve as worthy ambassadors and give their best during the competition.
Technical Adviser to the team, Simon Evbuomwan, expressed confidence in the squad’s readiness, noting that the players were carefully selected after a rigorous screening process involving basketball academies across the South-West.
He said the team had undergone intensive training sessions designed to strengthen both their technical and tactical abilities ahead of the tournament.
Team captain, Adewoye Timilehin, a student of Ilupeju Grammar School, said the players were determined to make the country proud.
“We have prepared well for this competition and we are looking forward to representing Nigeria positively,” he said.
The tournament is expected to attract teams from 63 countries and will combine sporting competition with cultural exchange activities for participating children.
Nigeria will be making its sixth appearance at the annual youth basketball event.
