Lagos State Sports Commission Pledges Full Support for Spires 5aside Tournament

By Victor Ottah:

The Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC) has expressed its full commitment to supporting the Spires 5aside Tournament, highlighting the long-term potential for growth and development. During a courtesy visit by the Spires 5aside Team, led by Convener Dr. Femi Bankole Allibay, the Director-General of the LSSC, Mr. Laken Fatodu, emphasized the importance of public-private sector collaboration in the advancement of grassroots sports, particularly in football.

Mr. Fatodu, reflecting on his experience at last year’s edition of the Spires 5aside Tournament, shared a vision for the future growth of the competition. He noted that the Lagos State government is committed to partnering with the tournament, particularly in areas such as capacity building, talent identification, logistical support, and promotion. He expressed pride in the Spires 5aside initiative as a private sector-driven event that is actively investing in the local sports ecosystem and enriching the lives of youths in Lagos State.

“From my experience, I now have a clear picture of where this tournament can grow in the future. The LSSC is ready to lend support in key areas, as we recognize the impact this initiative has on our youth,” stated Mr. Fatodu.

Highlighting the significance of leveraging government support, Mr. Fatodu also stated that the Spires 5aside Tournament would benefit from the credibility and resources of the Lagos State government in attracting potential sponsors to the event. “As the Director-General of Sports in Lagos, I represent the office of His Excellency, Governor Sanwo-Olu. The Spires 5aside Tournament has the full backing of the Governor and the State government,” he added.

Dr. Bankole Allibay, Convener of the Spires 5aside Tournament, underscored the shared objective between the Spires Initiative and the Lagos State Sports Commission to nurture and develop grassroots talent. Dr. Bankole also expressed the importance for making participation free of charge, which he believes provides an invaluable opportunity for youths, particularly those without the financial means, to compete on an equal footing with their peers from more privileged backgrounds.

“Supporting young talents and providing them with equal opportunities is crucial for the future of football in Lagos and Nigeria. The Spires 5-aside Tournament is making that possible by offering access to those who may not have the resources to join expensive academies,” said Dr. Bankole.

The event concluded with the LSSC pledging its continued support to the tournament, ensuring that both parties work together to enhance the sporting landscape in Lagos State, develop grassroots football, and create more opportunities for young athletes to showcase their talents.

The Spires 5aside Tournament is ready to commence with season 2 as registration is still on.

The tournament which was created as a platform for youth development and football competition, continues to gain traction as a pivotal initiative in shaping the future of sports in Lagos State. With the backing of the LSSC and the Lagos State government, the future looks bright for the tournament and the young talents it serves.