By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Damilola Sonayan-James |
BADAGRY, LAGOS — Damilola Sonayon-James, the Lagos State Deputy Governorship Candidate under All Progressives Congress has led grand reception of the world-renowned Tour d’Afrique cyclists in Badagry in commemoration of World Cycling Day 2026.
The event, which brought together a diverse crowd of sports enthusiasts and community stakeholders, was held on Friday at the Local Government Secretariat, under the inspiring theme, "Cycling to Stay Fit." Hosted by the Badagry Federation comprising Badagry Local Government, Olorunda LCDA, and Badagry West LCDA the celebration served as both a fitness campaign and a showcase of Badagry’s potential for sports tourism.
Addressing the spirited crowd, Princess Damilola Sonayon James emphasized that physical well-being is the bedrock of a productive society. She challenged the youth to prioritize their health while simultaneously taking a more active role in the political landscape.
"Physical fitness is essential for a vibrant life, and cycling is a powerful tool to achieve this. Beyond the pedals and the road, I urge our young people to embrace the spirit of endurance in all facets of life," Princess James remarked. "Just as we navigate these paths today, I encourage you to take charge of your future by participating in governance, leadership, and the sustainable development of our great community."
The Executive Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Hon. Babatunde Hunpe, opened the proceedings by highlighting the economic and social significance of the visit. "This event is a significant milestone," Hon. Hunpe stated. "It does more than promote sports; it puts Badagry on the global map, boosting our visibility and reinforcing our commitment to tourism development."
The atmosphere was further elevated by the presence of prominent political figures who lauded Princess James’s leadership. Mrs. Arinola Ajose, wife of the late GAC leader Chief Sunny Ajose, emotionally connected the event to her husband’s vision for the region. "Seeing this level of engagement in Badagry is a dream come true for my late husband," she noted, while offering prayers for Princess James’s continued success.
Hon. Bamgbose, an APC Apex Leader, echoed these sentiments, praising the Deputy Governorship candidate for her unwavering dedication to the growth of the Badagry Federation. "Princess DSJ has shown time and again that she is a leader who cares about the pulse of our people," he added.
The excitement surrounding the day reached a crescendo when Hon. Rauf Ibrahim, Chairman of Badagry-West LCDA, spoke on the political future of the region. He described the candidacy of Princess Damilola Sonayon James as a defining moment for the area.
"The emergence of Princess Damilola Sonayon James as our Deputy Governorship candidate is a immense source of pride for us," Hon. Ibrahim said. "We are incredibly optimistic about the transformative development opportunities her leadership will bring to Badagry and the wider state."