LSSC Director-General Outlines Strategy for Talent Discovery

The Director-General of the Lagos State Sports Commission (LSSC), Lekan Fatodu, has outlined a comprehensive strategy aimed at strengthening talent identification and development across the state. During a strategic meeting with department heads at the Teslim Balogun Stadium, Fatodu emphasized that these programs are vital for ensuring sustainable sports growth. He noted that the commission is pivoting toward a more innovative approach to keep pace with emerging global trends.

While acknowledging the progress made by the commission so far, Fatodu stressed that there is significant room for improvement through collective effort and renewed commitment. He urged staff to explore new ideas and trends to elevate the institution's performance. He credited the successes of the previous year to the dedication of the commission’s professional workforce but called for a more aggressive push toward excellence in the coming months.

​A major highlight of the 2026 calendar is the hosting of the inaugural Intermediate Games, an initiative supported by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu. The Director-General noted that the Governor remains deeply committed to youth empowerment through competitive sports platforms. This new competition is expected to bridge the gap between grassroots discovery and professional participation for young athletes across the state’s various divisions.

​In addition to new tournaments, the LSSC will intensify preparations for the National Para Games and the annual National Youth Games. Fatodu assured stakeholders that athlete welfare and career progression would be prioritized, with a specific focus on properly inaugurating senior athletes. To ensure accountability, the performance of coaches will now be measured through Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) focused on talent growth and athlete development.

The Director-General revealed plans to strengthen collaborations with the Ministry of Education to revitalize school sports as a foundation for discovery. By focusing on grassroots programs, the LSSC aims to provide adequate platforms for young talents to showcase and harness their inherent abilities. Fatodu reaffirmed that the commission's ultimate goal is to build a robust sports ecosystem that benefits every aspiring athlete in Lagos.