Oyo State Athletes send SOS to Governor Makinde
..Groan As They Continue to Receive Paltry N 30,000 Monthly After Years of Promised Salary Increases
Oyo State athletes have sent a Save- Our- Soul message to the Executive Governor of the state, Engr. Seyi Makinde over what they described as having negatively affected their livelihood and performance, dashing their hope of living a better life.
A statement issued and signed by the concerned athletes narrated how the government had promised the implementation of the minimum wage, which was supposed to hike their monthly salary to 80 thousand naira, but after years of high promises, they were still receiving a paltry 30 thousand naira.
The statement reads thus: “We the athletes of Oyo State, wish to begin by expressing our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde, for his continuous support and dedication to sports development in our dear state. Under his leadership, Oyo State athletes have enjoyed unprecedented opportunities to compete, excel, and make the state proud both nationally and internationally.”
“His investment in infrastructure, training, and athlete welfare has been a source of motivation and pride for all of us. It is on the strength of this appreciation that we humbly bring to the governor’s attention a matter that directly affects our livelihood and performance.”
“Some time ago, an announcement was made regarding the increase of athletes’ monthly salary from ₦30,000 to ₦80,000; a gesture that filled us with hopes and renewed commitment. Unfortunately, this promised adjustment has not yet been implemented, and we have continued to receive the old salary of ₦30,000.”
The statement reads further. “We understand that governance comes with many competing demands, and we deeply respect the challenges of balancing resources. But this increase is not just about money; it is about honoring the sacrifices, discipline, and dedication of Oyo State athletes. Improved welfare allows us to train better, live better, and bring even greater glory to the state.”
The athletes, however, appealed to the governor and the relevant authorities to look into their matter urgently so that the promise made to Oyo State athletes can be fulfilled. “We remain committed to upholding the honour of our dear state, confident that our governor, a true lover of sports, will once again and stand with us.”
They expressed their belief that with the right support and resources, they would achieve remarkable successes in upcoming competitions. The athletes are hopeful that their dedication, combined with the promised assistance, will elevate Oyo State’s reputation in the world of sports.
