By Ayomide Otitoju
Lagos State Governor, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has praised the Daniel Ford Elite Table Tennis Tournament for its role in developing young sporting talents across Nigeria, while commending the leadership of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC).
Speaking at the tournament’s opening at Molade Okoya-Thomas Hall, Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, the governor described grassroots sports initiatives as the foundation of Lagos’ growing success in national and international competitions.
Sanwo-Olu highlighted Lagos’ historic victory at the 9th National Youth Games earlier this year, attributing the achievement to deliberate policy direction, consistent funding, and strategic partnerships that focus on talent discovery and athlete development at the community level.
“Lagos won the National Youth Games for the first time this year, demonstrating the state’s commitment to grassroots initiatives like Daniel Ford. I am confident Lagos will top again at the next Youth Games thanks to the pragmatic and excellent leadership of the Lagos State Sports Commission,” he said.
The governor also commended the Director-General of the LSSC, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, and his team for their dedicated efforts in promoting sports development.
Now in its third year, the Daniel Ford Elite Table Tennis Tournament has become a key platform for talent identification and development. Sponsored by UK-based property firm Daniel Ford International, the tournament has expanded this year to include an Under-12 category alongside the existing Under-15 and Under-19 divisions, offering more opportunities for young athletes to showcase their skills.
