The Lagos State Government (LASG) on Saturday commended the telecommunications company, MTN for its commitment to sports development and talent identification in the country.
The Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu gave the commendation in his address at the closing ceremony of the MTN Champs Season 3.0 Lagos Edition.
The Governor was represented by the Director-General, Lagos State Sport Commission (LSSC), Mr Lekan Fatodu.
Sanwo-Olu said that he believed very strongly that MTN would continue to make a difference in different areas of human endeavours.
“We say a big thank you to MTN Nigeria for your vision of leadership and bold investment in the dreams of young Nigerians.
“You have proven once again that MTN is more than just a telecoms giant, you are a transformational factor in nation building.
“This event is a demonstration of our belief in the potential of our youth and the power of sports jto create lasting impact,’’ he said.
According to him, over the past few days, there have been remarkable display of talent, determination, and sportmanship that underscore the immense potential of Nigerian youths.
He said that this competition had not only provided a platform for young athletes to showcase their abilities but also played a pivotal role in nurturing the next generation of sports stars.
Sanwo-Olu said that the enthusiasm and commitment displayed by these young individuals are a testament to the bright future of athletics in Lagos State and Nigeria at large.
According to him, the highlight of this event is the outstanding performance of 13-year-old Michael Ukuku, who set a new high jump record.
The governor said that Ukuku’s achievement deserved a round of applause, as an inspiration to his peers and to exemplify the height that one could reach through dedication and hard work.
He said: ‘‘We are deeply grateful to MTN Nigeria for their unwavering support and commitment to sports development and talent identification.’’
He congratulated all participants, organisers, supporters who contributed to the success of the event.
“As we look forward to the grand finale in Uyo later this month, let us continue to support and encourage our young athletes.
“Together we can build a robust sport culture that fosters tenacity and unity. Thank you all for being part of this journey,’’ he said.
In her remark, Ugonwa Nwoye, Chief Customer Relations Officer (CCRO), MTN, expressed gratitude, appreciation and renewed inspiration for the success of the competition.
Nwoye said that from the very beginning the objective of MTN Champs had been to create a platform that identified and builds future Olympians that would represent Nigeria on the world stage.
She said that MTN set out to give young athletes the kind of visibility, opportunity and support that could change the trajectory of their lives and it had done just that.
“Over the past four days, we have witnessed new talent, raw talent, unshakable determination and the power of unity through sport.
“We have seen records broken, limits pushed and dreams awakened but beyond the medals and the victories we have also built something deeper.
“A movement that says to every young person watching, you are seen, you are capable and your future is full of possibilities,’’ she said.
According to her, this success is not ours alone, it is not MTN’s success alone, it belongs to every athlete who showed up.
Nwoye said the success belonged to every coach who invested belief, every official who maintained the integrity of the sport and every partner who understood the vision and backed it fully.
She said: “To our host city, Lagos, the state of aquatic splendor, thank you for embracing us. To the families and fans who filled the stands and cheered, you brought the spirit to this event.
“As we close this chapter, we don’t say goodbye, we only say onward because MTN Champs is not just an event, it’s a growing legacy and from here we look forward to bigger dreams.
“More inspiring stories and a future where every young athlete has a stage to shine.’’
NAN reports that MTN Champs Season 3.0 Lagos Edition ran through April 9 to April 12.
