In a historic stride toward youth empowerment and community development, kakalistiq.com reports that Senator Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, FCA, representing Lagos East Senatorial District, led a high-profile delegation on Sunday to inspect the near-completed SAIL Innovation Lab and Sports Centre in Orimedu, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos State. The state-of-the-art facility, sited on an expansive 8,600-square-meter land, promises to be a game-changer for the community and beyond.
Accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Feyisola Abiru, and Mr. Wahid Enitan Oshodi, President of the African Table Tennis Federation and Executive Vice President of the International Table Tennis Federation, the senator toured the cutting-edge facility designed to promote innovation, sports, and youth development.
The SAIL Innovation Lab boasts an advanced learning and co-working environment capable of accommodating 200 trainees, with operational offices on two floors. Adjacent to the lab is a sports complex featuring a standard 90×45-foot football pitch, an indoor table tennis court, changing rooms, and a catering service area. This visionary project positions Ibeju-Lekki as a hub for innovation and recreational excellence.
“The innovation lab and sports center are more than just structures; they are symbols of hope, progress, and the future we are building together—a future filled with opportunities for innovation, empowerment, and youth development,” Senator Abiru remarked during a courtesy visit to His Royal Majesty, Oba Toheeb Abidemi Yissa Oyedele, the Onimedu of Orimedu Land.
The monarch, Oba Oyedele, commended Senator Abiru for his unwavering commitment to holistic development across the Lagos East Senatorial District. “The people of Orimedu and surrounding communities are proud to have a senator who prioritizes impactful projects,” the king stated, highlighting the senator’s dedication to serving the grassroots.
Other dignitaries at the inspection included Chief Bode Oyedele, a prominent leader in Ibeju-Lekki; Hon. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa, Executive Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government; Hon. Bayo Balogun, Member of the House of Representatives (Ibeju-Lekki Federal Constituency); Dr. Saheed Ibikunle, Senator Abiru’s Special Adviser on Constituency Matters; and Hon. (Princess) Adebimpe Akinsola, former Lagos State House of Assembly member.
Senator Abiru emphasized the transformative potential of the facility, citing the role of innovation and technology in shaping global economies. “The world today is driven by innovation and technology. Therefore, we must position our young ones for the enormous opportunities this current era of tech revolution provides. Just as we have done in Ikorodu, we are building a world-class and inspirational facility here, where our young people will be eager to stay and learn,” the senator stated.
This ambitious project reflects the African proverb, “The child who is not embraced by the village will burn it down to feel its warmth.” By prioritizing initiatives that empower the youth and strengthen community bonds, Senator Abiru and his team are setting a precedent for sustainable development.
As the SAIL Innovation Lab and Sports Centre nears completion, the people of Ibeju-Lekki anticipate the transformational opportunities it will bring, reaffirming the age-old saying: “A rising tide lifts all boats.”
