Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has pledged increased government support for grassroots sports development to engage youths, discover talents and promote their well-being.

The Governor made the commitment at the closing ceremony of the 17th edition of the Kwara State Commissioner of Police Cup, organised by the Youth Sports Federation of Nigeria (YSFON) in Ilorin.

Represented by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bola Mogaji, AbdulRazaq said his administration would strengthen its sponsorship and participation in subsequent editions of the tournament.

He said keeping young people actively engaged in sports would help reduce crime while promoting their physical, mental and economic well-being.

The Governor added that well-structured grassroots sports programmes provide opportunities for talented athletes to develop their skills and secure professional contracts with major clubs.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mogaji commended the organisers for introducing the female category, describing sports as a strong unifying factor across communities and cultures.

He said the inclusion of the female tournament, now in its second year, underscored the importance of gender inclusivity in grassroots sports development.

Mogaji also appreciated the Commissioner of Police, CP Adekimi Ojo, and the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA) for their partnership and support towards the success of the competition.

Meanwhile, Future Stars FA emerged champions of the U-17 Boys category after defeating Koller FC 3-2 in the final.

Future Stars FA also completed a double in the boys’ categories, defeating UNIPES FA 2-0 to win the U-13 title.

In the U-17 Girls category, Kwara United Queens secured the championship after a 4-0 victory over Model Queens FC.

The results brought the 17th edition of the YSFON Commissioner of Police Cup to a colourful conclusion.