Engineer Samuel Olatunji Jackson, President of the Nigeria Arm Wrestling Federation, former overall captain of the Lagos State hockey team, and former board member of the Lagos Hockey Association, is celebrating the Lagos U-15 girls’ hockey team for their remarkable achievement at the ongoing National Youth Games in Asaba.
The young athletes made history by securing the first-ever gold medal in hockey for Lagos State since the inception of the youth games.
Jackson, who has long been a supporter of youth sports development in Lagos, played an instrumental role in the team’s success.
He provided the U-15 team with essential equipment during their preparation for the competition, ensuring they were well-equipped and motivated to perform at their best.
Speaking on the triumph, Jackson expressed his admiration for the young athletes and commended their dedication, discipline, and talent. He highlighted that this victory reflects the continuous development of hockey in Lagos State and emphasized the importance of investing in grassroots sports.
“This is the first time since the National Youth Games started that Team Lagos Hockey has won gold. It shows that the team is developing in the state, and it’s truly a testament to the hard work the players, coaches, and the Lagos State government have put in,” Jackson remarked.
He also extended his gratitude to Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering support of sports initiatives in the state. “I want to appreciate the governor for his major role in fostering sports development, particularly in hockey. His support has been a game-changer for these young athletes and has contributed significantly to their success.”
Jackson’s vision is for Lagos to become a powerhouse in youth sports across Nigeria, and this gold medal win marks an important step toward realizing that goal.
