Date: 2021-07-25

The Kwara State Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, has stated that youths' participation in sporting activities leads to lower crime rate.

This was contained in a statement titled, 'Kwara Deputy Gov reassures on youth development', released by the Chief Press Secretary to the Deputy Governor, Modupe Joel, on Friday.

According to the statement, Alabi called for youths' participation in sports at the closing ceremony of Igbaja Sports Carnival, held at ECWA Secondary School Field, Igbaja, Ifelodun Local Government of the state on Thursday.

The statement partly read, "Mr Alabi encouraged youths to make hard work and discipline their watchword. He said sports has brought many from grass to grace and has united people irrespective of religion and ethnicity.

"He explained that sport would help youths become better contributors to society, increase their confidence, and improve their social skills. Participation in sport, he added, is linked to higher grades, lower dropout rates, reduced truancy and lower crime rates.

"He implored the youths to give back to the community that has encouraged and given them avenues to showcase their talents.

"The Jagunmolu of Igbajaland, Alhaji Dr Abdulraheem Amoo Oladimeji, appreciated the Government for its youth-driven programs and encouraged it not to relent.

"Chairman of the occasion, Hon Raphael Adetiba, the Deputy Speaker, Kwara State House of Assembly, said talented youths remain the heart without which no community can function."