Kwara state has again reiterated its commitment towards the empowerment of the youths through sports, and equally partnering any individual or group that is supporting that initiative.
While speaking yesterday, Thursday August 28, 2025, in Offa, Offa Local Government Area of Kwara state through the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Magaji, at the closing ceremony of the 6th edition of First Lady U14 Table Tennis Championship, Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq said that his administration has pririotise the development of youth and sports.
The championship was staged at the Ludlow Hall, Offa Grammar School, Offa.
He commended the First Lady, Ambassador Professor Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, the State Sports Commission, the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Kwara state and the host Local Government, Offa, for their support.
He equally commended the organiser, Prince Dare Adebayo Omowumi for his untiring efforts at keeping the youth busy through sports.
The Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi Bàtà, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry, Mrs. Iyabo Modupe Adekeye thanked the state government for its commitment to grassroots sports development, while she also praised Offa Local Government for been a good host.
The Chairman of the Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON), Hon. Abdullahi Abubakar Danladi, who is the Executive Chairman of Kaiama Local Government Area praised all the 16 Local Government Areas for honouring the First Lady, Ambassador Professor Mrs. Olufolake AbdulRazaq with the tournament.
Hon. Danladi, who was represented by the Vice Chairman of ALGON and Chairman of Ilorin South Local Government, Hon. Nuhu Podo said that the body will continue to sustain its complementary role to the investment of the state government in sports.
Offa Local Government Chairman, Hon. Sulaiman Olatunji Omituntun commended the Organiser for choosing Offa as host, adding that his Council has learnt and achieved a lot with the worthwhile experience of hosting the event.
The Organiser, Prince Dare Adebayo Omowumi said that the tournament is not just a celebration of competition, but of passion, talent, and the bright future of sports in our state.
“This championship was conceived to achieve two major objectives: to provide a platform for the discovery and nurturing of young table tennis talents, and to honour your unwavering support for youth development, sports advancement, and the well-being of children in Kwara State. Six editions down the line, we are proud to say the vision is becoming a reality.
“Over the past few days, we have witnessed thrilling contests, remarkable displays of skill, and most importantly, the spirit of sportsmanship. These young athletes have not only entertained us but have shown us that with the right encouragement and opportunities, Kwara State can produce champions who will shine on national and international stages.
“Your Excellency, permit me to place on record our deepest appreciation to you for your motherly support. This championship is a testament to your commitment to the growth of sports and your belief in the potential of our children. You have inspired us to keep investing in the future of our youth.
The First Lady and six others were honoured at the ocassion. They include the Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Mallam Bola Magaji, Kwara ALGON Chairman, the Secretary of ALGON who also doubles as Isin Local Government Chairman, Hon. Benjamin Lanre Jolayemi, Offa Local Government Chairman and the Organiser, Prince Dare Adebayo Omowumi.
Omowumi, who said that table tennis boards were presented to all the 16 Local Government Areas in three consecutive editions, presented a brand new board to Offa Local Government, as hosts.
The Chairman of Offa Local Government, Hon. Sulaiman Olatunji wọn the exhibition game involving three other Chairmen, that of Isin, Ilorin East and Ilorin South.
Abdulraheem Nana Hawau and Owoniyi Risikat, both of Offa Local Government wọn gold and silver, while Olawoyin Simiat of Oyún and Hakeem Aishat of Ifelodun won bronze, in the Female Singles event.
In the Male Singles event, Mohammed Mahmud of Ilorin South wọn gold, Sulyman Saheed of Ilorin East won silver, while the duo of Adam Mohammed and Adebisi Soliu, from Ilorin East and Oke-Ero respectively, won bronze.
Ibrahim Habeeb and Oluwatolasi Abigeal of Isin won gold of the Mixed Doubles event. Zakariyau Habeeb and Akeem Aishat of Ifelodun won silver. Abdulkarrem Akeem and Bello Ramat of Ekiti, as well as Surajudeen Shogo and Yunus Muriyat of Asa won joint third.
Kaiama Local Government Area will host the next event in 2026.
