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Sanwo-Olu Inspects Teslim Balogun Stadium, Assures Lagos Is Ready for Historic National Intermediate Games
Lagos State Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu has expressed satisfaction with the progress of rehabilitation works at the Teslim Balogun Stadium and other sporting facilities across the state as preparations intensify for the inaugural National Intermediate Games.
Sanwo-Olu inspected the facilities as Lagos steps up preparations to host the historic competition, which is designed to strengthen the pathway from grassroots sports to elite competition and provide young Nigerian athletes with a platform to develop their talents.
The governor said the rehabilitation of Teslim Balogun Stadium was progressing well, noting that the natural grass pitch has been completed, while work on the new tartan track is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.
Other facilities, including the indoor sports halls and swimming pools, are also undergoing upgrades ahead of the Games, with thousands of young athletes expected to converge on Lagos.
The National Intermediate Games was introduced by the National Sports Commission as part of efforts to bridge the gap between grassroots competitions and elite-level sport. The maiden edition is scheduled for September 2026, with Lagos selected as host.
Sanwo-Olu said the investment in sports infrastructure extends beyond hosting the Games, stressing that Lagos has spent the past three years rehabilitating and developing sporting facilities across several parts of the state.
“Our young people deserve quality facilities close to home. We want them to discover their talents, compete with confidence and see a future for themselves in sports right here in Nigeria,” the governor said.
He highlighted ongoing development across areas including Surulere, Ikorodu, Epe, Agege and Badagry, describing the projects as part of a broader strategy to bring sporting opportunities closer to young people across Lagos.
The governor also reaffirmed Lagos’ readiness to host the maiden National Intermediate Games to a high standard, building on the state’s reputation for staging major sporting events.
The Main Organising Committee of the Games, led by National Sports Commission Director-General Bukola Olopade, had earlier inspected competition venues, accommodation facilities and other support infrastructure across Lagos and expressed satisfaction with the state’s level of preparedness. Contractors handling the Teslim Balogun Stadium rehabilitation also indicated that the project remains on schedule for delivery ahead of the Games.
With work continuing across the city’s sporting infrastructure, Lagos is now preparing to welcome the next generation of Nigerian athletes for the maiden National Intermediate Games, with the competition expected to play a significant role in strengthening the country’s long-term talent-development pathway.
Super Falcons and Washington Spirit midfielder Deborah Abiodun has successfully undergone surgery following an injury that has ruled her out for the remainder of the season.
Sports247 reports that the 22-year-old Nigerian midfielder is now beginning the rehabilitation phase of her recovery as she works towards returning to full fitness.
Abiodun’s injury is also expected to keep her out of Nigeria’s upcoming Olympic qualifiers against Comoros next month, denying the Super Falcons the services of one of their emerging midfield talents for the crucial fixtures.
Despite the setback, Abiodun has maintained a positive outlook and used her experience to send an encouraging message to young footballers who may find themselves facing similar challenges.
Reflecting on the emotional side of undergoing surgery, the midfielder admitted that she was initially scared and nervous but encouraged other players to remain patient and resilient during difficult moments.
“It’s tough sometimes, but you got to keep going. Thank you everyone for your kind words and prayers,” Abiodun said.
She explained that her message was particularly intended to motivate younger players who may be dealing with injuries and the uncertainty that comes with being sidelined.
“I was scared and nervous. It gets better, hang in there,” she added.
The setback represents a frustrating interruption for Abiodun, who has continued to establish herself at both club and international level. Her absence will be felt by the Washington Spirit for the remainder of the campaign and could also affect Nigeria’s plans for the upcoming Olympic qualifying fixtures.
For now, the focus shifts entirely to rehabilitation as Abiodun begins the long road back to competitive football.
The Super Falcons midfielder will be hoping for a smooth recovery and a strong return to the pitch when she is eventually cleared to resume action.
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