Ogun State's Sporting Stars Tobi Amusan and Abiola Onakoya Pay It Forward with Youth Development Event

 

Tobi Amusan, fresh off her Diamond League victory in the 100m hurdles, is gearing up to return to Nigeria in November to pursue her passion for nurturing young talent. She aims to provide opportunities for budding athletes to showcase their skills.

From November 3rd to the 4th, promising young athletes from all corners of Ogun State will gather at the renowned Otunba Dipo Dina Stadium in Ijebu-Ode for the second edition of the Tobi/Abiola Ijebu Sprint and Relays Meet.

Both Tobi Amusan and Abiola Onakoya benefited from youth development programs in Ogun State, which played a pivotal role in identifying their athletic potential. These programs also paved the way for them to earn scholarships to study at the University of El-Paso in Texas, USA.

Before completing their education, they proudly represented Team Nigeria at various levels of competition, showcasing their talent and dedication.

Grateful for the opportunities they received, Amusan and Onakoya have made it their mission to give back to their community. Their efforts have garnered support from the Governor of Ogun State, Dapo Abiodun, who appointed Amusan as the Youth Ambassador of Ogun State following her record-breaking performance in the 2022 World Championships in Eugene.

Amusan's remarkable achievement, including winning a gold medal at the event, has solidified her status as the first and only Nigerian to achieve such success in the World Athletics Championships since its inception in 1983.

In recognition of her contributions to grassroots athletics and her impressive achievements, Amusan was honored with the ambassadorial role.

Unlike the first edition, which was limited to Ijebu-Ode, this second edition of the event has received the backing of the Ogun State Government, allowing participation from schools across the entire state.

Winners of this edition will not only receive certificates and medals but also valuable items like spike shoes and canvas. Additionally, winning schools will be rewarded with prizes to further motivate young athletes.