By Ayomide Otitoju
The Lagos State Government, in partnership with technology company TECNO, has unveiled the Sanwo-Olu Mini Stadium, an eight-a-side AstroTurf football pitch located at Sura under bridge, Lagos Island, as part of efforts to promote youth engagement and sports development across the state.
The initiative aligns with the commitment of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s administration to strengthen grassroots sports and provide accessible sporting infrastructure for young people. Through the partnership, TECNO has transformed previously underutilised spaces into modern training facilities aimed at nurturing local football talent.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, commended TECNO for its corporate social responsibility initiative, describing the project as a significant contribution to youth empowerment and community development. He noted that quality infrastructure remains critical to talent development and pledged that the state government, in collaboration with the host community, would ensure the maintenance of the facility.
Fatodu also praised Governor Sanwo-Olu for supporting the construction of eight mini stadia across Lagos State to improve access to sports facilities at the grassroots level. He further encouraged corporate organisations to support the development of multi-sports infrastructure to cater to diverse athletic interests beyond football.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, described the project as a practical way of engaging youths and sports enthusiasts in meaningful activities. He emphasised the importance of public-private partnerships in youth development, noting that government efforts must be complemented by private sector collaboration to create opportunities for young people to compete globally.
In his remarks, TECNO’s Marketing Manager, Olumide Yomi-Omolayo, said the company’s investment reflects its commitment to supporting not only current African footballers but also the future of the sport on the continent, adding that the mini stadium is part of efforts to develop football talent at the grassroots level.
