Lagos State Governor, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode, on Sunday, reaffirmed the commitment of his administration to encourage sports, saying the numerous world-class sporting events taking place in the state clearly indicate that the state is the next destination for sports on the continent.

Fielding questions from journalists at the opening ceremony of the 6th Edition of Copa Lagos Beach Soccer Tournament held at Eko Atlantic City in Victoria Island, Lagos, Ambode said being a sports lover, the state government would continue to use sports and entertainment to promote tourism and showcase the excellence which the state has long been known for.

While alluding to the African Nations’ Cup Beach Soccer Tournament holding in Lagos from Wednesday, December 14, 2016, Ambode said his administration would continue to support sports to positively engage the young people in the state.

“I must say I am very excited to be here to attend the 6th edition of the Copa Lagos Beach Soccer Tournament. Sports is very important in Lagos and, knowing this, we decided to support this.

“In another few days, Lagos will be hosting the Nations’ Cup Beach Soccer Tournament and, I think, Lagos is just the next destination for Sports in Africa. I love sports and Lagos has to love sports. That’s the way it’s going to go,” he said.

In the opening games of the tournament, Enyimba FC over-ran Pespi Academy 6-5, with, while the celebrity game between Team D’ Banj and Team Ikpeba ended 2-1 in favour of the retired football stars.