Sport can be a medium of expression, and this time it carried the heartfelt wishes of young people across Lagos. To celebrate the 60th birthday of the Governor of Lagos State, His Excellency Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Lagos State Sports Commission mobilised young people from the five IBILE divisions in Lagos to create the most inclusive human formation in Lagos sports history.
Dressed in Lagos sports tracksuits, participants, spanning different age groups and including individuals with physical, visual, and hearing impairments, came together to form a typographic display that spelt out: SANWO-OLU @ 60, symbolising the inclusive ethos the Governor has consistently championed. It was a public expression of gratitude for his inclusive style of governance, especially in the areas of sports and youth development.
By including individuals from different backgrounds and conditions, the Lagos State Sports Commission demonstrated its commitment to representation without barriers, ensuring that no group is left behind.
Speaking at the event, Mr Lekan Fatodu, Director General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, stated: “This was never just about a formation. It is a declaration of gratitude for the Governor’s commitment to sports development without discrimination. Everybody here, whether physically challenged, hearing impaired, visually impaired or not, represents a voice that has been seen, heard, and valued under Governor Sanwo-Olu’s leadership. It’s a celebration of his humanity and his embrace of all.”
Several of the young participants shared what the moment meant to them.
Vincent Nunayon, a 19-year-old from Badagry who is hearing impaired, signed through an interpreter: “Governor Sanwo-Olu’s 60th is not just about his age, it is about the lives he has touched. Today, I felt like part of that story.”
28-year-old Aisha Majekodumi from Ikorodu, who walked onto the field with a prosthetic limb, said: “I was proud to stand in the ‘O’ of Sanwo-Olu. He makes people like me feel seen. Celebrating him this way felt right.”
Chinedu Ikemefunna, a basketball enthusiast, added: “I was proud to stand with young people from across Lagos today. We came together to say thank you to a Governor who has opened doors in sports.”
This formation reinforced the Lagos State Sports Commission’s approach to sport as a tool for inclusion, identity, and shared meaning. It showed how public institutions can move beyond ceremony and create moments that connect leadership with the people. @lf_champ
