Prioritise sports devt to reduce illict acts among youths, Foundation urges govt

The Chief Executive Officer of DAKA Foundation, Dr Kazeem Adesina Abidikugu has called on governments at all levels and non-governmental organisations to encourage the development of sports as a way of engaging the Nigerian youths against clandestine activities.

Abidikugu, who was represented by the Education Coordinator, DAKA Foundation, Abiola Williams made this known after receiving the AIONIAN Meritorious Award, at the 2025 AIONIAN Games in Ondo, Ondo state.

Abidikugu, who is an old student of Ibadan Grammar School and United Kingdom-based Psychiatric Consultant, while supporting the school’s contingent with cash for smooth participation at the 2025 AIONIAN Games, said if the youths are engaged in sporting activities they will not be idle hands which are usually the tools of Satan.

According to him, “We need to engage our youths in sporting activities. Most of them are in their prime with a lot of energy. This energy can be used to win laurels in sports. In most developed countries, Nigerians and indeed the blacks are the one dominating various sports.

“It is high time, we engaged our youths in sporting activities right from schools so that they will stop going into drugs, cultism and other social vices.”

Abidikugu while commending the organisers of the AIONIAN Games, Ondo 2025, he appreciates the efforts they put into the sustenance of the Games, saying many of the products are doing well in sports in many foreign countries.

While presenting the award, the Chief AIONIAN, Masanwo Sunday Adegbemiga described the DAKA CEO as an illustrious and distinguished mountaineer.

“It is my great pleasure to stand before you today to present this meritorious award to an exceptional individual who has made a profound impact in the lives of countless people.

“Dr Adesina Kazeem Abidikugu is a shining example of the values that our Great AIONIAN Brotherhood holds dear, compassion, generosity, and a commitment to making a positive difference in the world. Through tireless efforts and philanthropic work, he has inspired countless individuals and communities and has left an indelible mark on our society.

“DAKA Foundation Education Endowment contributions to indigent students have been truly remarkable, and his dedication to creating positive change is a testament to the power of individual action. As we gather here today to recognize his achievements, we are reminded that one person can indeed make a difference.

“It is indeed our honour in the AIONIAN Brotherhood to recognize Dr Adesina Kazeem Abidikugu with this award. He has consistently over a decade granted scholarships to indigent students in Ibadan South East and North East and Ibadan Grammar School in particular and we are grateful for the opportunity to celebrate this remarkable achievement.”