On October 10, 2026, Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, unveiled five sports courts at the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure. The newly inaugurated facilities include courts for Abula, beach volleyball, handball, basketball, and volleyball. Represented by his Special Adviser on Union Matters, Mr. Bola Taiwo, Aiyedatiwa stated that the project aims to improve sporting facilities, promote youth engagement, and create a conducive environment for athletes to develop their talents.

According to Aiyedatiwa, the project is part of his administration's efforts to boost sports development in the state. He commended the Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council, Oladimeji Abimbola, for his role in accelerating the project's completion. Aiyedatiwa noted that Abimbola's appointment as a professional to lead the council had led to visible improvements within a short period. The governor promised that more sporting facilities would be provided across the state's sporting zones.

Aiyedatiwa expressed his administration's commitment to the development of the state, particularly in the area of sports. He revealed that the government was working to employ athletes who were not yet full staff of the state government, to provide them with a stable source of income. The governor emphasized that his administration was determined to improve sporting facilities, creating a conducive environment for athletes to thrive.

Mr. Jide Oguntodu, Chairman of the Ondo State House of Assembly Committee on Sports, commended Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to sports development and youth welfare. Oguntodu, who has chaired the committee for over three years, described the newly inaugurated facilities as evidence of the government's commitment to engaging young people productively. He expressed confidence that the governor would do more to develop sports in the state.

Oladimeji Abimbola, Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council, highlighted his experience and familiarity with the challenges facing the Sports Council before his appointment. With 16 years of experience at the complex, Abimbola stated that he was well-equipped to address the challenges and create a conducive environment for athletes to thrive. He emphasized the importance of motivating athletes, saying the council had begun implementing measures to improve their welfare.

Abimbola revealed that the council would continue to prioritize athletes' welfare and motivation to improve their performance. He expressed his readiness to correct past mistakes and move the council forward. The chairman's efforts aim to create a positive impact on the state's sports sector, providing opportunities for young athletes to develop their skills.

The inauguration of the sports courts marks a significant milestone in the development of sports in Ondo State. With the governor's commitment to improving sporting facilities and the council's focus on athletes' welfare, the state's sports sector is poised for growth and development. The project is expected to have a positive impact on the state's youth, providing them with opportunities for engagement and talent development.

Key points

  • Governor Aiyedatiwa inaugurates five sports courts at the Ondo State Sports Complex, promising improved sporting facilities across the state.
  • The project aims to improve sporting facilities, promote youth engagement, and create a conducive environment for athletes to develop their talents.
  • The governor's administration is working to employ athletes who were not yet full staff of the state government, to provide them with a stable source of income.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.