‘Youths can learn discipline, perseverance, through sports’

Youths have been admonished to take up sports as an avenue to learn discipline, hard work, perseverance, and gain valuable opportunities for personal growth and development.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s Senior Special Adviser on Sports, Damilare Orimoloye, gave the advice at the first Street Rumble Boxing organised by his Office.

According to him, the Street Rumble Boxing was organised to especially give back to the society and use sports to curb juvenile delinquency.

Orimoloye noted that boxing unites people, fostering strong bonds regardless of background. ‘This sport uniquely inspires, brings people together, and motivates them in ways that few other activities can. By understanding boxing’s impact on communities, we appreciate its importance even more,’ he said.

He added: “Street Rumble Boxing aims to give back to the community, engage Lagos youth in sports, enrich social development, and promote athletic achievement. Lagos is home to many talented individuals who can excel in boxing. These talents can be discovered, nurtured, and developed into champions and mentors.

“Our major objective for organizing this competition is to discover talents, ignite street participation in sports, bring back the glory days of sports excellence in Lagos, and continue to make Lagos the hub of sports.

“This journey is a testament to the power of collaboration and dedication. I am honoured to have played a part in promoting social inclusion, gender equality, and youth empowerment through sports.

“I assure you that Street Rumble Boxing is here to stay, providing opportunities for boxers to showcase their skills and be scouted by coaches who will nurture them to compete for Lagos State locally and internationally.

“With the governor’s full backing, I reiterate that this initiative will expand to include more sports, all happening in the secure and conducive environments under the refurbished bridges of Lagos.

“I am deeply grateful to our amazing attendees whose energy and cheers inspired our fighters to give their best. To our incredible sponsors, your belief in this vision was a game-changer. And to our supporters, your kind words and encouragement meant the world.”

Ten boxers – eight male and two female – drawn from various registered boxing clubs, participated in the contest.

Participants got cash gifts, consolation prizes and certificate of participation.