The Ibadan NorthWest Local Government Area of Oyo State played host to a thrilling football festival, attracting dignitaries, football enthusiasts, and community members from across the region. The event, which celebrated grassroots football, was organized by Coach Odelabi Oluwaseyi Joel, a renowned local coach with a strong passion for developing young talent.
Held at the Federal Cooperative College Eleyele , the festival featured several friendly matches between Ibadan NorthWest Legend Team and Nigeria Coaches Association Oyo State Chapter, showcasing the immense footballing potential of the area. The event also aimed to foster community spirit, promote physical fitness, and create opportunities for youth engagement in sports.
Among the dignitaries in attendance were Oyo State’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke; Chairman of Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, Prince Adebowale Falana; Hon Abayomi Fagbenro-Bibire, Founder of Bibire People’s Vision Association; the Executive Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government, Hon. Rahman Adepoju; Vice Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government, Hon Ganiy Abiodun Omotosho; Representatives of Chairman PTS Oyo State, Hon Soliu Ishola Labule, Special Assistant to Governor Seyi Makinde on Ibadan NorthWest/Southwest Federal Constituency; Hon Sarah Sobowale, Secretary of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government; Hon Kazeem Fantola, Chief of Staff to Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government; Hon Lukman Adesina, Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest PDP; Rt Hon Oluwagbemileke Gbadamosi Nelson, Leader of the House, Ibadan NorthWest Legislative, NULGE Chairman Comrade Durodola, Councillors, Supervisory Councillors, Special Assistants to the chairman and Residents of Ibadan NorthWest Local Government whereas serving coaches led by the coordinator, Coach Samuel Emiato who are doing well in the sports competitions. Their presence underscored the importance of promoting sports at the grassroots level and supporting local talent.
Hon. Adepoju, in his address, commended the initiative, emphasizing the significance of investing in sports for youth empowerment and community development. He also pledged continued support from the government to initiatives that promote sports and physical education across Ibadan NorthWest and Oyo State.
Coach Odelabi Oluwaseyi Joel, the brain behind the festival, expressed his gratitude to the attendees and participants, highlighting the event as part of his ongoing commitment to nurture young footballers. “This festival is just the beginning,” he said. “Our goal is to create an avenue where young players can be discovered, nurtured, and given the opportunity to grow in the world of football.”
In another speech by special guest of the day and founder of Bibire People’s Vision Association, Hon Abayomi Fagbenro-Bibire who stated;
“I want to encourage our youth to continue to support this administration of Governor Seyi Makinde with a sustainable development agenda for Oyo State whereas extending similar continual support to the local government headed by Alhaji Rahman Adepoju, the Executive Chairman of Ibadan NorthWest” he stated.
The festival also featured an exhibition match that included Ibadan NorthWest Future Stars. The event was widely celebrated as a major step in developing football talent in the region and creating a more vibrant sports culture within Ibadan NorthWest and beyond.
The festival culminated with an award ceremony where top-performing teams and individual players were recognized for their outstanding performances. Local teams that participated expressed their hope that such events would become a regular feature in the area, providing both players and fans with exciting football experiences.
The kickoff of the Legends Teams and Future Stars performed by the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports and Chairman of Oyo State Agency for Youth Development respectively.
As the festival came to a close, both organizers and participants left with a sense of accomplishment and excitement commentation by Afeez Muhammed (Cantona) of Success 105.9FM, looking forward to future events that will continue to unite the community through the beautiful game of football.
