KEY POINTS
- Governor Sanwo-Olu received the Premier League trophy from Guinness Nigeria.
- Lagos promises to focus on using sports to develop youth.
- The governor of Lagos is encouraging Premier League teams to make a trip to Lagos during their breaks.
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Sunday took delivery of the Premier League trophy at the State House in Marina, demonstrating his government’s promise to make sports support the development of Lagos youth.
As part of a move to engage Nigerian fans with the world famous league, Girish Sharma, MD/CEO of Guinness Nigeria Plc, awarded the trophy.
Gboyega Akosile, the governor’s advisor on media and publicity, made the announcement through a press release.
Sports acting as a driving force for change
During his speech, Governor Sanwo-Olu explained that the Premier League inspires young people around the world.
We are glad to have the Premier League Trophy here with Guinness’ support. Sports are used to make a difference and reach out to young people.
In his address, Sanwo-Olu explained that sports often lead to the discovery of new abilities, create responsible individuals and support both the young people and the community.
Plan visits by premier league teams
The Governor acknowledged Guinness Nigeria’s work in promoting sports and advised them to set up friendly league matches in Lagos by Premier League teams during the off-season.
We will never bite anyone or eat them; we are all just fans and we wish we could hug them and snap a picture together, he said with a laugh. “We hope teams come here to see their millions of supporters and understand the country and the state.”
Sanwo-Olu promised the business sector that the government is committed to helping companies thrive and prosper in the state.
Guinness Nigeria: marking 75 years of making a difference
In what he said, Girish Sharma recognized Lagos for its business environment and pointed out that the key to giving the Premier league trophy tour was Nigeria’s deep passion for football.
Our goal is for the trophy to visit Nigeria because this country is among the biggest for sport. Since there is no other way for the trophy not to reach the Nigerians, they will surely feel it, he said.
Finally, he demonstrated Guinness Nigeria’s personal interest in the country and encouraged Nigerians to recognize the nation’s possibilities by supporting sports development.
