Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, on Saturday, led top government functionaries, athletes and residents on an endurance trek within the city of Akure to commemorate 2024 World Olympic Day.
Represented by his deputy, Dr Olayide Adelami, the governor led others to mark the 40-minute Olympic Day run from the government house ground in Alagbaka, through Oba Adesida road to breast the tape at the Ondo State sports complex, Akure.
In a statement signed by Deputy Governor spokesman, John Paul Akinduro, the governor restated his administration’s commitment to rejig youth and sports development, highlighting the place of sports in national unity.
He said the government has embarked on a total overhaul of sports facilities across the state.
“The contract for the upgrade of Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure has been awarded to a reputable contractor to meet international standards, other stadia in Ondo, Ikare, and Ile-Oluji will also be awarded soon to meet our needs across the state”
He said the government will also award a contract for the new stadium at Araromi street in Akure to decentralise sporting activities in the already over-stretched Ondo State sports complex and enhance sports development in the state.
In his welcome address, the state Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Saka Yusuf Ogunleye, said the sustainability of the event was a clear indication that sports is a veritable instrument for the promotion of global peace.
Representative of the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC), Sylvester Ikuejamoye, urged the people to embrace regular exercise to keep the mind and body healthy.
Highpoints of the event include short display by three Guinness World record holders in rope skipping and the presentation of certificates to the governor, speaker of Ondo state House of Assembly, Rt Hon. Olamide Oladiji, Chief of Staff to the Governor, Prince Segun Omojuwa, and others.
