Olabode George, Ladipo Pledge Support For Media Ga

The Lagos NUJ had a major boost towards its Media Games as two frontline Nigerians have pledged to sponsor aspects of the event and further raise sponsorship funds for its actualisation. The Vice-Chairman, South, of the Peoples democratic Party, Chief Olabode George and the President General of the Nigeria Football supporters Club, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo told a delegations of the NUJ Council who visited them at two different fora during the weekend, that they will lend support the Games as a demonstration of their solidarity to the Nigerian media.

According to them it was also a demonstation of their appreciation of the contributions of journalist to nation building.

While Chief Bode George offered to sponsor one of the events in the competition for three million naira besides reaching out to his friends and associates to raise further support for the games.Dr. Ladipo pledged to ensure that the Supporters Club would be available to add colour and value to the Games. He also elected to personally institute a award for the competitors.

Speaking in support of the Games, Chief George noted that the Nigerian media performed creditably well and it behoved on all well meaning Nigerians to support them. He said "the Games are good for camaraderie and it will help journalists to release some job stress and return back to work in healthier body and mind."

On his part, Dr. Ladipo observed that the Nigerian media helped to build the Supporters Club to its enviable status worldwide. "It is only natural that the club responds when approached to support the media." The Games would feature competitons in about ten sports disciplines, is a contest among Nigeria media organisations and practitioners.

It is billed to open on August 22 at the National Stadium, Lagos and other sporting centers across the city. Already, a number of the organisations have started training and engaging themselves in friendly matches in preparation for the games.