Former England International of Nigerian descent, John Winton Fashanu, has eulogised the current administration in Ogun State for embarking on massive turnaround of sport and sporting facilities across the State, in preparation for the fast approaching National Sports Festival.
The ex-Aston Villa of England striker made this remark while on a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for Sports Development, Hon. Wasiu Isiaka, in his office, expressed his admiration for the Ogun State Government’s efforts in providing world-class sporting facilities ahead of the upcoming Gateway Games.
The legendary footballer who had illustrious career with English clubs; Wimbledon, Nottingham Forest, Notts County, among others, expressed his excitement to be part of the festival, confirming his presence at the opening ceremony.
While emphasised his willingness to give back to the community, by leveraging his experience and expertise to inspire the next generation of athletes, as well as creating a world class academy to be linked to his academy in London, Fashanu praised the present administration for its commitment towards sports development,
He stated that the facilities put in place were testaments to the government’s dedication to nurturing young talents and promoting sports excellence.
The visit highlights the strong partnership between the State Government and sports stakeholders, as well as the government’s efforts to create a conducive environment for the development of sports.
With the National Sports Festival just around the corner, Fashanu’s visit was a boost to the State’s preparations and a testament to the quality of facilities and organization towards the Nigerian Olympics.
“I am here, because this is my State, I will make up for the lost time I was not here. There are clubs in the UK that are hungry for players in football, basketball, golf and swimmers. There is an enormous demand, and I am so pleased that I spoke with His Excellency and he has agreed to help me in my dream. What I see is a sports academy, named after Dapo Abiodun, where we can have all kinds of sports linked unto me in my big academy in London, where dreams can actually come true. It’s a win-win situation for State,” he said.
Responding to his neglect of the Super Eagles, the former Aston Villa forward noted that, “I don’t have any regrets not playing for Nigeria. I still get a bonus for playing for England, which is not applicable to ex-players in Nigeria. We have to give pensions to our retired players.
“Most of the Nigerian ex-players advised me to stay away from sport politics, I fought them, telling them that I want to be part of it, but I was wrong and they were right,” he revealed.
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