Lagos State Athletics Association Honours Ajayi Kanyinsola, Family

The Lagos State Athletics Association has celebrated Nigerian sprint sensation and national record holder, Ajayi Kanyinsola, in recognition of his outstanding achievements on the international athletics stage, honouring him in the presence of his family and young athletes.

Ajayi, an indigene of Lagos State who rose from Ikorodu to become one of the prominent names in global sprinting, was hosted by the state he proudly represented at the 2022 National Sports Festival in Asaba, where he clinched a gold medal for Lagos.

From representing Lagos at the National Sports Festival to competing for Nigeria at the World Athletics U20 Championships, Ajayi’s journey has been marked by determination, consistency, and remarkable progression.

The Commonwealth Games medallist currently holds the Nigerian national record in the men’s 100m, with an impressive personal best of 9.84 seconds, a mark he established earlier this year.

His remarkable 2026 season has seen him deliver notable performances on the global stage. At the recently concluded Commonwealth Games in Glasgow, he secured two medals for Nigeria before progressing to the Diamond League Final, where he finished on the podium.

He also finished fourth at the World Athletics Ultimate Championships, following an impressive campaign that included several competitive outings during the NCAA season.

A one-time NCAA 100m champion, Ajayi’s achievements have continued to place him among the leading Nigerian sprinters competing at the highest level of international athletics.

The celebration was organised by the Lagos State Athletics Association, under the chairmanship of Dr. Solomon Alao, to recognise his accomplishments and acknowledge the dedication, sacrifices, and support of the family and coaches who contributed to his journey.

Speaking at the event, Ajayi expressed gratitude to the Association for its continued support over the years and appreciated the honour of being celebrated in the presence of his family and the next generation of athletes.

Using his personal journey as a source of inspiration, he encouraged young athletes to remain disciplined, committed, and connected to their roots, while acknowledging the sacrifices made by his family and coaches.

In his words: “Today, I compete not just for myself, but for every young person watching who needs to know that excellence is possible. Represent my country well. Represent Africa with pride. Stay rooted in your community and your family. Work hard early. And when the door opens, work through it with purpose.”

His message resonated with the young athletes in attendance, reinforcing the importance of perseverance, family support, discipline, and the belief that dreams can become reality through dedication and hard work.

In his remarks, the Chairman of the Lagos State Athletics Association, Dr. Solomon Alao, reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to supporting Ajayi and other athletes from Lagos State, while emphasising the need to continually invest in the growth and development of athletics.

He reiterated that the Association’s vision extends beyond celebrating established stars to creating opportunities, providing encouragement, and nurturing emerging talents across Lagos State and Nigeria.

A particularly emotional highlight of the occasion was the recognition of Ajayi’s mother, who was honoured and presented with remarkable gifts by the Association’s Chairman in appreciation of her sacrifices, dedication, and invaluable contribution to her son’s success.

The gesture underlined the important role families play in the development of elite athletes and served as a reminder that behind every successful athlete is a story of sacrifice, encouragement, and unwavering support.

For Kanyinsola, the celebration was more than a recognition of medals, records, and podium finishes. It was a homecoming, an opportunity to reconnect with his roots, celebrate those who stood by him, and inspire the next generation of athletes from Lagos State to dream beyond their immediate environment.

From Ikorodu to the world, Ajayi’s journey stands as a testament to the power of talent, hard work, family support, and the importance of investing in the future of Nigerian athletics.