The Federal Ministry of Sports has signed a deal with Yanga Games, a leading lottery company.
This agreement aims to bolster the Ministry’s revenue and offer enhanced support for athlete welfare. It marks a significant stride toward uplifting Nigerian sports and fostering a brighter outlook for athletes nationwide.
During the partnership unveiling in Lagos on Friday, Mr. Derrick David Kentebe, Chairman/CEO of Yanga Games, expressed profound enthusiasm, stating, “We are immensely thrilled by the prospect of collaborating with the Ministry of Sports Development to reshape the narrative surrounding sports in our country. We perceive an opportunity to promote our athletes and sports overall. We are poised to leverage this unique partnership to its fullest potential. Our commitment is unwavering, driven by a fervent desire to bring benefits to all key stakeholders.”
Kentebe outlined that the agreement will offer support for retired athletes, bolster grassroots sports development, and nurture the potential of special athletes. He pledged, “Yanga Games stands ready to raise funds on behalf of the Ministry of Sports for athlete development, as well as secure endorsement and sponsorship deals for athletes.”
Minister of Sports, Senator John Owan Enoh, expressed full confidence in Yanga Games to execute their mandate. He said, “Gone are the days when we relied solely on government funding for sports development. Through our partnership with Yanga Games, we aim to maximize benefits for athletes and all key stakeholders. We are committed to providing institutional encouragement and support to ensure the success of Yanga Games in this significant endeavor of revitalizing our sports sector.”
Kentebe affirmed, “We anticipate raising approximately 34 Billion over the next four years to aid athletes and elevate sports in the nation. We will contribute to grassroots sports development and sustain youth engagement through raffle draws, fundraisers, and other avenues.”