Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has awarded cash prizes totaling over eight million naira to the parents of young athletes who won medals at the 2025 National Youth Games (NYG), in a move aimed at supporting the educational development of the rising sports talents.
The presentation took place during a reception at the George Innih Stadium in Ilorin.
Represented by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Coach Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, the Governor said the financial support would serve as a scholarship incentive for the underage athletes, ensuring that their academic growth progresses alongside their sporting achievements.
Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted Kwara’s remarkable improvement in the National Youth Games over the years—rising from 23rd position to 7th, then 6th, and now securing an impressive 5th place finish.
He praised the athletes for their dedication and outstanding performance, revealing that Kwara participated in 26 sporting events and won medals in 21 categories—an achievement unmatched in the state’s history.
The cash awards, amounting to over eight million naira, are intended to assist parents with school fees, uniforms, books, and other essential educational needs.
Governor AbdulRazaq also noted that Kwara remains the only northern state consistently competing at the highest levels against teams from the South-South and South-West regions.
He encouraged the young athletes to remain committed to both academics and sports, while urging parents to continue nurturing their children’s talents.
Responding on behalf of the beneficiaries, Mr. Abdulsalam Abdullah expressed gratitude to the Governor for acknowledging the children’s accomplishments and assured that parents would continue to support the state’s sports development efforts.
