Sports and Social Development,

In fulfilment of its promise, Lagos State Government Thursday rewarded its athletes for their feat at the 17th National Sports Festival held in Port Harcourt, Rivers State last year.

The event, which was held at the Mobolaji Sports Centre, Rowe Park had medallists getting cash reward for their performance in various sporting events.

According to the Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Social Development, Wahid Oshodi, the gesture was aimed at encouraging the athletes as well as the state’s resolve to give the athletes’ welfare a priority.

The gold medallists were rewarded with N100, 000 while the silver and bronze medallists were given N75, 000 and N50, 000 respectively.

Oshodi however, apologised to the athletes that the gesture was coming a bit late, but assured them that their feat in subsequent championships will not take too long before getting recognition.

“We are aware of the hard work, discipline and dedication that is necessary to succeed in sports. These awards are therefore an acknowledgement by the state of the brilliant commitment of our athletes. We are proud of you and appreciate your outstanding effort in representing Lagos State,” he said.

The commissioner, however, charged the athletes to focus on the 18th edition of the championship, which would be hosted by the state, saying “as the host, we are expected to put up a brilliant showing and we will not disappoint.”

He added: “We are a team and we must all work together if we are going to succeed in November/ December this year. We win together; we lose together. And in all things we must ensure that we are fair and play by the rules. I will always give my best to you athletes, and what I ask from you in return is that you give your best in representing Lagos State. If you do this I am convinced we will have plenty reason to celebrate at the National Sports Festival.”

Over 101 athletes and 72 coaches were rewarded with cash prize valued at N16.5m.