Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun has said grassroots sports are essential to provide an array of sportsmen and women, as well as the development of skills in youths for competitive events at all levels.

Governor Abiodun made this known during the 3rd edition of the State Public Primary Schools Governor's Cup Competition at the M.K.O International Stadium, Abeokuta, saying sports provide a veritable platform for the development of everyone and a wholesome education plan.

The Governor noted that the sustenance of grassroots sports would help address the current challenge in the country to enhance the national competitive sports reputation at the regional, continental and global levels.

 Abiodun stated that the hosting of this Governor's Cup had allowed all participants to widen their horizons for knowledge and sporting activities, saying  "sports provide a veritable platform for the development of all of us and a wholesome education plan”.

He called on public-spirited individuals and investors to partner with the State government in the advancement of sports, adding that it was important for the country to nurture the younger and agile generation, to be able to compete at the international level, acknowledging the efforts of the team Ogun who recently won 70 medals comprising of 15 gold, 18 silver and 37 Bronze medals at the just concluded National Sports Festival held in Delta State.

In his address, the Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Chief Femi Majekodunmi while appreciating the Governor for his support which ensured the success of the competition, said the Board would continue to play its role in encouraging sports and building pupils talents from the primary school level.

Majekodunmi who noted that the competition was introduced by SUBEB said the conception and implementation of school sports would help to instill patience, and teamwork into the lives of future leaders.

Contributing, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Dr. Oluwadare Kehinde said the technical team of the Ministry was on ground to discover talents at the competition, commending Governor Abiodun for his support, particularly at the just concluded National Sports Festival in Delta State.