At the South-west Games 2025, Femi Gbajabiamila was a man who stood in the spotlight for something more than political clout—his unwavering commitment to the future of Nigerian youth. Crowned Champion of Grassroots Sports, he stood as a living embodiment of the change he has tirelessly worked to bring about.

From the Speaker’s chair to the corridors of power as Chief of Staff to President Bola Tinubu, Gbajabiamila’s true mastery lies in his ability to turn policy into progress, specifically for Nigeria’s youth. Under his stewardship, the nation has witnessed a revival of sports at the grassroots level. Now, is it a competition, a rehabilitated facility, or an initiative? They have all become stepping stones for young Nigerians to chase their dreams.

That moment at Onikan Stadium was a fitting celebration of a man who sees sports not just as games but as a vital tool for societal transformation. In the crowd’s roar was a collective understanding that Gbajabiamila’s efforts have woven sports into the very fabric of national development. Where once opportunities were few, they now abound.

The Champion of Grassroots Sports Award was not only a trophy to place on a shelf. No, it was a declaration of the hard work that has reshaped the landscape of Nigerian athletics. But for Gbajabiamila, this honour is just another step in a lifelong journey to foster discipline, resilience, and success among Nigeria’s youth.

As the South-west Games unfolded, it was clear that the future of Nigerian sports has a strong ally in Gbajabiamila. Through his work, sports are no longer just a pastime; they are an avenue for character-building and national unity, laying the foundation for a stronger, more cohesive society.

​