The All Progressives Congress (APC) chairmanship candidate and current Vice Chairman of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA, Mr. Seyi Jakande, has pledged to continue the sports development initiatives established by the outgoing chairman, Mr. Rasaq Ajala, if elected in the upcoming July 12 Lagos State Local Government Elections.
Speaking at a press event ahead of the commencement of the fifth edition of the Odi-Olowo Chairman’s Cup, Jakande praised Ajala’s leadership and vision, emphasizing the need for governance continuity to ensure sustained progress in youth empowerment through sports.
“One of the most powerful aspects of this competition is how it bridges administrations,” Jakande said.
“It begins under the current leadership of Hon. Rasaq Ajala and will conclude under the next. That alone is a strong signal that there is continuity in governance.”
Jakande reiterated his commitment to nurturing the programs currently in place and ensuring they flourish even after Ajala leaves office.
“As someone who believes deeply in continuity, I can confidently say we will maintain and expand all the sporting programs initiated by this administration,” he assured.
“We’ve laid a solid foundation, and I promise that by September, this competition will be successfully concluded and leave a lasting impact.”
He also commended Ajala for the strategic decision to rename and reposition the tournament for greater regional visibility.
“This tournament began five years ago as the HRA Cup,” Jakande noted.
“But it was the foresight and wisdom of Chairman Ajala to evolve it into the Odi-Olowo Chairman’s Cup. That shift has allowed it to grow beyond our community and attract participation from across Lagos and even neighboring states.”
Jakande’s remarks come as the Odi-Olowo Chairman’s Cup continues to gain recognition as a grassroots talent hub, with several participants going on to represent Nigeria at the youth international level and competing in global tournaments such as the Gothia Cup in Sweden.
With local government elections around the corner, Jakande’s vow to sustain and build on Ajala’s sports legacy is seen as a promise to not only preserve but also elevate community development through youth sports engagement.
