Gov AbdulRazaq Rewards Asaba 2025 National Youth Games Medalists, Hosts Parents in Ilorin
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Mogaji highlights the importance of combining education with sports as Kwara celebrates medalists
The Executive Governor of Kwara State, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, on Friday hosted, recognized, and rewarded medalists and their parents from the National Youth Games tagged Asaba 2025. The event took place at the Kwara Football Academy (KFA) Conference Room, George Agbazika Innih Stadium, Ilorin.
The ceremony, held on December 5, 2025, featured the symbolic presentation of cash rewards to medal-winning athletes on behalf of the Governor by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji. Other top officials including the SSA on New Media, Permanent Members of the Commission, the Director of Sports, and the Commission Secretary also took part in the presentation.
According to Coach Mogaji, the approved cash rewards are ₦200,000 for gold medalists, ₦150,000 for silver medalists, and ₦100,000 for bronze medalists. He revealed that although the initial plan was a scholarship scheme, the Commission resolved after careful deliberation that giving the cash directly to parents would better support the educational needs and development paths of the young athletes. The parents were asked to receive the money as the athletes are underage.
Mogaji commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his continued investment in sports development, noting that the Governor “remains one of the most supportive leaders in nurturing young athletic talents in Nigeria,” with sustained efforts in both infrastructure and human capital development.
He urged parents to continue partnering with the Commission to secure a brighter future for their children in sports and beyond.
Two Permanent Members of the Commission, Alhaji Dele Abubakar (MON) representing Kwara Central, and Hon. Abdullahi Yunusa Lade representing Kwara North, also praised the Governor for his unwavering commitment to youth development. They lauded Coach Mogaji’s leadership and advised the young athletes to balance sporting excellence with academic growth.
The event commenced at 3:00 PM with opening remarks from the Director of Sports, Mallam Ibrahim Oladele Bako, who expressed gratitude to the Governor for consistently rewarding athletes.
He also appreciated parents for trusting the Commission with the development of their children.
The Commission Secretary equally acknowledged the presence of parents, athletes, coaches, association secretaries, and other stakeholders.
In his goodwill message, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on New Media, Hon. Mikeal Yinka Fafoluyi (Akeweje), encouraged the athletes particularly the youngest medalist, Abdulsalam Yusuf, now a notable face of the National Youth Games to remain disciplined and focused. He reaffirmed the Governor’s dedication to supporting sports and youth development in the State.
Speaking on behalf of all parents, Mr. Abdulsalam thanked the Governor for his continuous support for sports and the youths of Kwara State. He also commended Coach Mogaji’s leadership and pledged that parents would continue to support the Commission’s objectives.
Other dignitaries present included Mr. Gidado, Chief Financial Accountant of the Commission; Mr. Amidu Olowo, Head of Organizing; and Mrs. Afusat Adesoye, Head of School Sports, among others.
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