During the Kwara State Inter-Ministerial Media Briefing in Ilorin yesterday, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, outlined the numerous achievements of the AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq-led administration in the area of sports development.
Mogaji emphasized the significant changes brought about by the transition from the Ministry of Youth and Sports to the Sports Commission, which has allowed for direct access to the governor.
He highlighted the reintroduction of the Kwara State Sports Festival, which had not been held in six years, and the renovation of key sporting facilities, including swimming pools, basketball, volleyball, and squash courts. The construction of eight standard squash courts, which Mogaji noted is a rare accomplishment in Nigeria, was also showcased as a significant achievement.
In discussing youth development through sports, Mogaji emphasized that the renovation and construction of new sporting arenas are key to empowering young people in the state.
However, he expressed concern over the lack of functionality in some school sports arenas, which he described as a setback for the state’s sports innovation. To counter this, the Kwara State government has instructed that all newly constructed schools must include a sports arena before receiving approval.
Touching on Kwara United’s current form, Mogaji urged patience from fans, noting that the club has seen significant progress under the current administration. He highlighted that in previous years, the team struggled to remain in the top flight for more than two seasons, but under Governor AbdulRazaq’s leadership, Kwara United has enjoyed five consecutive seasons in the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL).
He credited the government’s support, especially in providing the necessary resources for the club’s stability and growth, and hinted that plans are in place to further enhance Kwara United’s performance in the coming seasons.
The Executive Chairman also proudly shared that Kwara State’s performance in the National Sports Festival has dramatically improved. Before he assumed office, the state had not secured a top-10 position, but in his first year, Kwara State ranked in the top six and five positions respectively. He thanked the government for its consistent support in ensuring that Kwara State continues to excel in national sports competitions.
With these achievements, the Kwara State government has proven its commitment to youth development and sports excellence, further positioning the state as a key player in Nigeria’s sporting landscape.
