FIVE OYO STATE ATHLETES QUALIFY TO REPRESENT NIGERIA AT THE CANADA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP

FIVE OYO STATE ATHLETES QUALIFY TO REPRESENT NIGERIA AT THE CANADA OPEN CHAMPIONSHIP 

By Ayobami Fakorede 

The Oyo State Government is proud to announce that five athletes from its Rowing, Canoe, and Sailing team have earned the honour of representing Nigeria at the national level, following their outstanding performance at the just concluded National Canoe Sprint/Kayak Trials.

The trials, which form part of the 2026 programme of activities of the National Rowing, Canoe and Sailing Federation, were held at Jabi Lake, Abuja, from March 22 to 23, 2026. The highly competitive event brought together some of the best canoeing and kayaking talents from across the country, all vying for a place on the national team.

A total of eight (8) athletes were invited from the Oyo State Sports Council to participate in the trials, including both able bodied and para athletes. The invitation itself was a recognition of the growing strength and consistency of Oyo State in water sports development.

All eight athletes represented the state with determination, discipline, and exceptional skill, putting up commendable performances throughout the competition. Their efforts reflected the quality of training, commitment, and support provided by the Oyo State Sports Council.

At the end of the keenly contested trials, five athletes distinguished themselves and secured qualification to represent Nigeria at the Canada Open Championship. The successful athletes are:

Sijuola Oluwatoyosi, Alemede Julius, Alayode Toyin, Adeyemi Funmilayo, Yeri Godpower. Their qualification is a testament not only to their individual hard work and perseverance but also to the effectiveness of the state’s sports development programmes.

The Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon Wasilat Adegoke has expressed immense pride in the achievements of these athletes, describing their success as a significant milestone for the state’s sporting community. Hon Wasilat noted that the athletes have demonstrated excellence, resilience, and the true spirit of sportsmanship.

While congratulating the five successful athletes on their remarkable achievement, Hon Wasilat also commended the other three athletes who participated in the trials. Despite not making the final selection, their performances were described as impressive and full of promise.

Hon Wasilat encouraged them not to be discouraged but to remain focused, intensify their training, and continue striving for excellence in future competitions. According to the Commissioner, their time will surely come with persistence and dedication.

The Honourable Commissioner, Hon, Alh Wasilat Adegoke reaffirmed its commitment to the development of sports at all levels and pledged continued support for athletes to excel both nationally and internationally. Hon Wasilat also reiterated its dedication to providing an enabling environment for both able bodied and para athletes to thrive.

As the qualified athletes prepare to represent Nigeria, Hon Wasilat expressed confidence that they will make the state and the nation proud by delivering outstanding performances on the national and international stage.