FAME Foundation Calls For Integrity, Respect, And Equality In Sport On World Fair Play Day

FAME Foundation joins the global sporting community to commemorate World Fair Play Day, observed annually on May 19, a day dedicated to promoting integrity, respect, equality, and ethical conduct in sport and everyday life. The global recognition highlights the importance of fairness, sportsmanship, and mutual respect as essential values that strengthen communities and shape positive social behavior.

World Fair Play Day serves as a reminder that sport is more than competition. It is a platform for teaching discipline, teamwork, accountability, inclusion, and respect for rules and opponents, while also reinforcing the values needed for peaceful coexistence in society.

Speaking to the press, Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi, Executive Director, FAME Foundation, emphasized that fair play remains a foundation for both sport and life.

“Fair play is about how we compete, how we respect others, and how we uphold integrity even when no one is watching. These values go beyond the field of play; they shape character and influence how individuals contribute to society.”

She stated that in many communities especially Nigeria, sport continues to play a vital role in engaging young people, reducing violence, and promoting positive choices, especially when fairness and respect are intentionally embedded in sporting activities.

“When young people experience fairness in sport, they learn how to apply the same principles in school, relationships, leadership, and everyday life. It builds character and encourages responsibility.”

She further stressed the need for coaches, parents, schools, and sporting bodies to intentionally model and promote fair play values at all levels of participation.

“Adults who guide young athletes carry a responsibility to demonstrate integrity, respect, and fairness. Children learn more from what they see than what they are told.”

FAME Foundation’s PLAY it DREAM it initiative continues to provide a platform where children and young people are engaged through sport in ways that promote inclusion, discipline, teamwork, leadership, and positive values that shape their growth both on and off the field.

She added that fairness must remain central to all sporting environments to ensure equal opportunity and safe participation for all.

“When sport is fair, it becomes truly powerful. It unites people, builds trust, and creates opportunities for everyone to thrive regardless of background or status.”

She concluded by calling for sustained commitment to ethical standards in sport and society.

“World Fair Play Day is a reminder that true victory is not only about winning, but about how the game is played. Integrity, respect, and fairness must remain non-negotiable values in sport and in life.”