Princess Damilola Sonayon-James, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Deputy Governorship Candidate in Lagos State, has called on young people to adopt cycling and other sporting activities as part of efforts to promote healthy living.
She made the appeal on Friday night during a reception organised for Tour d’Afrique cyclists in Badagry, as part of activities marking the 2026 World Cycling Day.
The event, themed “Cycling to Stay Fit,” was organised by the Badagry Federation, which comprises Badagry Local Government, Olorunda Local Council Development Area (LCDA) and Badagry West LCDA.
Sonayon-James emphasised the importance of regular physical activity in maintaining both mental and physical wellbeing.
She encouraged youths to actively participate in sports, noting that exercise plays a vital role in preventing lifestyle-related health challenges.
“I urge young people to embrace cycling and other sporting activities because the importance of physical exercise for healthy living cannot be overemphasised.
“I also want to see more youth participation in governance, leadership and community development,” she said.
She also commended the visiting cyclists and appreciated the hospitality extended to them by residents of the Badagry area.
The Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Babatunde Hunpe, described the initiative as a welcome development that could boost sports participation and promote tourism in the region.
He added that the programme would also help raise the profile of the Badagry Federation.
Also speaking, Arinola Ajose, wife of the late Governance Advisory Council (GAC) leader, Chief Sunny Ajose, expressed joy over the event, describing it as aligned with her late husband’s vision for the development of Badagry.
She offered prayers for Sonayon-James and encouraged her to remain committed to the growth of the area.
In his remarks, the APC Apex Leader in Badagry West LCDA, Joseph Bamgbose, praised the initiative and commended Sonayon-James for her dedication to community development, wishing her success in her political journey.