How Lagos Gov Uses Grassroot Sports To Tackle Crime

The Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu is pioneering a groundbreaking initiative to reduce crime and social vices by harnessing the potential of grassroots sports, with a focus on street soccer programs.

This innovative approach underscores the administration’s commitment to inclusive development, responsive governance, and youth empowerment.

With the introduction of the “Lagos Street Soccer game organized by the Governor through the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroot Sports,Mr Atewogboye Adebanji Adeoye has provided young people with a positive outlet to reduce involvement in crime and social vices,foster community engagement and promote social cohesion through sports.

As thousands of spectators witnessed the electrifying kickoff, transformed the normally bustling Oloyede Street,it has equip youth with essential life skills, including teamwork, discipline, and problem-solving,enhance their confidence and self-esteem among participants and instill a sense of purpose and direction among young people.

The SSA, noted that the event aligns with Governor Sanwo-Olu’s vision to promote grassroots sports development, provide a platform for young talents to shine,reduce youth involvement in criminal activities,empower youths to make positive contributions to society, promote a culture of inclusivity, diversity, social responsibility and enhance the overall well-being and quality of life for Lagosians which will revive the glory days of MTN Street Soccer in Lagos.

According to reports, with the mouth watering sum of N500,000,N250,000 for the 1st runner-up, and N100,000 for the 2nd runner-up,the Governor plans to invest additional resources to capture the interest of youth across all 57 local governments in the state, anticipating positive outcomes such as reduced crime rates and increased economic opportunities.

By leveraging the transformative power of sports, Governor Sanwo-Olu’s administration is poised to create a more prosperous and secure future for the people of Lagos.

The Lagos Street Soccer Stars Initiative has already shown promising results, with thousands of spectators witnessing the electrifying kickoff in Oshodi-Isolo.

According to information made available to journalists, the programme is aimed to drive sports development, youth engagement, and community outreach, with plans to expand to other local governments in Lagos, through the office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development, Mr. Atewogboye Adebanji Adeoye,who has launched a 7-day tournament to engage Lagos youths in grassroots sports activities, with cash rewards for participating teams.