The Lagos State Weightlifting Association has received a major lift with the donation of modern weightlifting barbells by its Chairman, Mr. Aderemi Lasisi, who also serves as a board member of the Nigeria Weightlifting Federation (NWF), representing the South West zone.
The presentation of the equipment marks another important step in strengthening grassroots and elite weightlifting development in Lagos State.
Mr. Lasisi, a long-time advocate of sports development, said the donation was part of his commitment to providing athletes with the right tools to train, compete, and excel on both national and international platforms.
“Facilities and equipment are the foundation of any successful sports program,” Lasisi noted. “When athletes have access to standard barbells, they can train properly, safely, and with confidence. This is how champions are built.”
“Charity begins at home, and that’s why I am starting here. First, these athletes need standard equipment for optimal performance, and the state of equipment in most of the states is nothing to write home about. So, we need to support and complement the efforts of the government.
“During my tour of the South West states to access thier state of the equipment as the Zonal Chairman, it was discovered that we as Zonal Chairmen need to do all within our power to upgrade these training facilities.
“The donated barbells will directly benefit young and elite lifters across Lagos, improving training quality and technical development. With standard equipment now available, coaches can better teach correct lifting techniques, while athletes can prepare under conditions similar to what they face at national championships and international meets.
“For a sport like weightlifting, where precision and consistency are crucial, quality equipment reduces the risk of injury and helps athletes develop strength, balance, and timing more effectively.
“This upgrade also enables the Lagos State Weightlifting Association to organize more structured training sessions, camps, and local competitions.
One of the biggest impacts of the donation is on grassroots participation. With improved facilities, more young people can be attracted to weightlifting, especially in public schools and community programs. The availability of proper barbells creates an environment where talent can be discovered early and nurtured correctly.
He added that the other incentives are the welfare of the athletes and the coaches.
Officials of the Association described the gesture as timely, saying it will inspire both athletes and administrators to work harder in positioning Lagos as a leading hub for weightlifting in Nigeria.
As an NWF board member representing the South West, Lasisi’s action also reflects a broader vision for regional development. By investing in Lagos, he is setting a standard for other states in the zone to prioritize infrastructure and athlete welfare.
The donation is expected to contribute to better performances by Lagos lifters at national competitions, including National Sports Festival trials and NWF championships, and ultimately to Nigeria’s international success.
Beyond the immediate benefits, the initiative underscores the importance of leadership that goes beyond policy to practical support. Mr. Lasisi’s donation of barbells is not just about equipment. It is about building confidence, professionalism, and a culture of excellence in Lagos weightlifting.
As the Association rolls out its new training programs with the upgraded tools, stakeholders are optimistic that this intervention will accelerate the growth of the sport, produce stronger athletes, and keep Lagos firmly on the map as a powerhouse of Nigerian weightlifting.
