Sanwo-Olu extols sports impact on Lagos brand equity

By Oghale Mafuru

The Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has extolled the impact of sports on the brand personality of the state as it fosters peace and international relations.

According to him, the Lagos City Marathon since inception has fundamentally enhanced the brand equity of Lagos state and has effectively positioned the state in a reputable place on the global map.

Speaking during the 7th edition of the Lagos City Marathon organised by Access Bank Plc, the governor reiterated the immense role of sport in nation-building and the development of the mental and psychological wellbeing of participants.

“The marathon also puts Lagos on a global platform in the area of sport. Every year, new records are broken and the marathon gets bigger and better. I hereby acknowledge, and appreciate the great work which Access Bank and all other sponsors have put in to make this edition a success.

“The goal of this event is to use sport as a tool to promote physical fitness, togetherness, resilience, and every virtue that can make human progress and live a fulfilling life. It embodies the spirit of Lagos, which teaches endurance, perseverance, and resilience while toiling through physical strength”, he said.

The 8km race which took off from Marina to the finish line at Atlantic City had as winners, Ulfata Deresa from Ethiopian runner under the male category clinching $30,000 cash prize. The female category was also won by the Ethiopian female runner, Dagne Siranesh Yirga, and went home with the $30,000 cash prize.

Other dignitaries present are the Deputy Governor of Lagos, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, Minister for Sport and Youth Development, Mr. Sunday Dare, Deputy Governor of Edo State, Comrade Philip Shuaibu, Lagos state Head of Service, Mr. Hakeem Muri-Okunola, amongst other top functionaries.