Manny Ita –
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has inaugurated the board of the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund (LSSTF), charging its members to mobilize resources for the development of grassroots, school, and community sports across the state. Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held at Lagos House, Marina, the governor stated that the board’s primary mandate is to support funding for sports and build strong institutions that will sustain athletic development for present and future generations. He urged the members to leverage their professional expertise, networks, and influence to attract support and investment into the sector.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that grassroots programs and school sports should receive priority attention, noting that Lagos possesses vast sporting talent that requires structured nurturing and adequate facilities. He added that the trust fund would help improve existing infrastructure, complete ongoing projects, and expand opportunities for young athletes across the state. The governor further explained that the fund is designed to serve as a bridge between the government and private sector participation in sports development.
According to the governor, many individuals and corporate organizations are willing to support sports initiatives but prefer to do so through an independent structure rather than directly through government channels. “The trust fund provides a credible platform for such partnerships,” he said. The board is chaired by Enitan Oshodi, the former Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development and President of the African Table Tennis Federation, while Olaposi Agunbiade will serve as Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer. Other members include Olabode Agoro, Adeniyi Adekoya, Gbolahan Onibuje, Jubril Gawat, Kikelomo Bolarinwa, Olayemi Sarumi, Lekan Fatodu, Moshood Ajide, and Engr. Ibrahim Adigun.
In his remarks, Oshodi stated that the board would focus on creating sustainable pathways for funding sports infrastructure and athlete development. He noted that although the state government already invests heavily in sports, the financial requirements of a megacity the size of Lagos far exceed public resources alone, making private sector involvement essential. He expressed confidence that the caliber of professionals on the board would attract strong corporate backing and deliver both short-term achievements and long-term growth for sports in the state. Officials noted that the Lagos State Sports Trust Fund is expected to play a crucial role in identifying talent, improving facilities, and positioning Lagos as a leading hub for sports development in Nigeria and across Africa.
