The Kwara State government has restated its resolve to promote and encourage the development of Sports in view of its importance to humanity.

The State Governor, Alhaji Abdulfatah Ahmed stated this on Thursday during the final of the 2nd Governor Ahmed Closed Badminton Championship, at the Indoor Sports Hall of the State Stadium Complex.

Governor Ahmed, who was represented by the Secretary to the State government, Alhaji Isiaka Sola Gold said plans are underway to renovate the Indoor Sports Hall.

He commended the Sponsor, the Chief Medical Director of the State General Hospital, Ilorin, Doctor Abdulfatai Olokoba for his determination to improve the fortune of youth in the State.

He called on other wealthy individuals and Corporate Organisations to contribute their quota to sports sponsorship to positively engaged youths.

The State Commissioner for Sports and Youth Development, Pharmacist Bolakale Ayo Nuhu also commended the sponsor for contributing his quota to sports development, urging others to emulate the gesture.

The Chairman of the occasion, Lawyer Yusuf Ola-Olu Alli represented by Barrister Yakub Dauda pledged his support to sports development, particularly badminton.

He called on the state government to urgently renovate the Indoor Sports Hall for the benefits of the athletes, and to attract national championships to the State.

The Chairman of the State Badminton Association, Mr. Kumbi Titiloye represented by his Vice, Engineer Sulaiman Warah restated the commitment of the association to promote the game.

The sponsor of the championship, Olokoba said he sponsored the tournament to encourage the youth and give back to the society.

The pair of Taiwo and Kehinde Adebayo beat Babatunde Moses and Titiloye Olamilekan 2-1 sets in the boys doubles while in the U-16 Girls Single, Sofia Obanisola defeated Nike Friday two straight sets to create an upset.

The event was witnessed by the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Alhaji Babatunde Abdulwahab, the State Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Atolagbe Alege, Permanent Secretaries and members of Kwara Badminton Veterans.