By Akeem Oduyoye
The Lagos State Government, in partnership with TECNO, has unveiled the Sanwo-Olu Mini Stadium, an eight-a-side astroturf football pitch located at Sura under bridge on Lagos Island, to boost youth engagement and grassroots sports development.
The facility is designed to provide young people in the area with access to modern sporting infrastructure, while also turning an unused urban space into a functional centre for training, recreation and talent discovery.
Speaking at the unveiling, the Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission, Lekan Fatodu, described the project as a major contribution to youth empowerment and community development. He commended TECNO for supporting the initiative and assured that the facility would be properly maintained in collaboration with the host community.
“This facility is meant to nurture talent for national and international opportunities. Infrastructure plays a key role in achieving this, and we appreciate TECNO for making it possible,” Fatodu said.
He also revealed that the Sanwo-Olu administration is building eight mini stadia across Lagos State to bring sports facilities closer to local communities. Fatodu encouraged more corporate organisations to invest in multi-sport infrastructure, noting that Lagos has athletes in several disciplines beyond football.
The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, said the project aligns with the state government’s goal of keeping youths engaged in positive activities. According to him, partnerships like this help create opportunities for young people to grow and compete at higher levels.
Also speaking, TECNO’s Marketing Manager, Olumide Yomi-Omolayo, said the company’s support was part of its long-term commitment to developing football in Africa. He explained that providing quality facilities was a way of investing in the future of the sport on the continent.