In a renewed bid to strengthen sports development at the foundational level of education and enhance inter-agency collaboration within the State, the Lagos State Universal Basic Education Board (LASUBEB) has entered into a partnership with the Lagos State Sports Commission to promote sports among pupils of public primary schools in the state.
During a courtesy visit by the Lagos State Sports Commission to LASUBEB’s headquarters on Thursday, 10 April, 2025, the Executive Chairman of LASUBEB, Dr. Hakeem Babatunde Shittu lauded the Commission for its unwavering commitment to talent discovery and nurturing young athletes for recognition on both local and international platforms.
Dr. Shittu emphasized that the partnership aligns with the Board’s core mandate of fostering inclusivity in basic education.
“Every child, regardless of background, gender or tribe deserves equal access to opportunities, including quality sports education. This collaboration is a vital step toward holistic child development,” he said.
He further appealed for the Commission’s support in upscaling the capacity of school sports coaches and teachers through training and retraining in modern sporting techniques that meet global standards.
“Investing in human capital is central to achieving our goals. Equipping our educators and coaches with up-to-date knowledge is key to unlocking the potentials in our children,” he noted.
Speaking further, Dr. Shittu retreated the Board’s proactive stance in promoting sports.
“We have introduced several sporting activities to our schools; however, we want to be fully involved. We want the Commission to use her professional touch in building young talents for the future,” he added.
Leading the Sports Commission delegation, the Director General, Mr. Lekan Fatodu, reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to promoting sportsmanship in schools. He emphasized the importance of laying a strong foundation for future professional sports men and women and strengthening partnerships that empowers young talents to thrive.
“The Commission is committed to ensuring that potentials are well incubated, nurtured, and shaped for opportunities and exposure,” Mr. Fatodu stated, noting further that, “this visit is more than symbolic—it marks the beginning of a purposeful collaboration to deepen grassroots sports development and provide platforms for our young stars to shine.”
Also speaking at the event, Board Secretary, Mr. Hakeem Lamidi, appreciated the Commission for the visit and expressed optimism about the outcomes of the partnership.
“This collaboration will not only boost the overall development of the children, but also give them a sense of belonging, with representation and visibility for pupils in state-owned primary schools,” he said.
