By Sunday Agunbiade
Chairman, Oyo State Football Association, Alakinyele of Akinyele, HRM Oba James Odeniran has announced date and venue for the final of U-17 football competition in Ibadan.
Organized by the Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Oyo State Chapter under the leadership of Coach Akinola Olatunji said the competition will host the Shakers and movers in football circle in the pacesetters state.
The much awaited final will witness two big clubs in the ancient city of Ibadan the Oyo State capital as Mido FC from Ibadan North West Local Government will lock horns with Mighty Stars Odinjo from Ibadan South East Local Government on Saturday 28th September, 2024. This will precede a cotton raiser between Oyo SWAN and Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Oyo State Chapter by 2pm
The Football Competition being put together by Grassroot Development Unit of Oyo State Football Coaches Association aims at promoting football development amongst young footballers in the state
According to Oba James Odeniran, he said: “This football Competition stems from my unwavering dedication and humble contribution to promote sports development in Oyo State.
Addressing newsmen during a press conference, Oba Odeniran said:
“Youth development through football competitions is both exciting and essential. It provides young players with the opportunity to hone their skills and develop their talents. In recent years, youth development has gained prominence, with clubs dedicating resources to nurture young potentials. This not only creates a talent pool for the future but also engages children early in sport, encouraging long-term participation.
The participants will have the chance to win cash prizes and gifts, with additional awards for various categories.” He assured.
The Chairman, Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Coach Akinola Olatunji said: Developing young football talent is crucial for numerous reasons. Firstly, it lays a strong foundation for the future by cultivating a pool of skilled players capable of excelling at the highest levels of the game. Secondly, youth development introduces children to football at a young age, fostering a passion for the sport and encouraging lifelong engagement.
“Through youth development programs, young players acquire essential life skills such as teamwork, communication, discipline, and respect, which extend beyond football and shape their character both on and off the field. By investing in the growth of young footballers, clubs create a sustainable pathway to success.”
Dignitaries expected at the finals are:
Alhaji Y.K. Ambass. Babaloja in General of Oyo State Gbagi Tuntun,Ibadan,.
Alhaja Fatimoh Arowolaje , Iyalode ,Olu Ana, Gbagi tuntun
Retired Chief Justice Abass Tajudeen. Mr Wale Elebute, All F. A Members. Honourable Bolaji Ojo-Oba, Chief Mrs Bolaji, member CCII, Alhaji Yaro, Chairman Hausa Community, Akinyele town, Ibadan. Oba Ajia Olorungbiji , Oba Sulaiman Oladapo, Oba Folarin HRM (Oba Olorunda Aba), HRM Oba Muritala Babalola (Onido of Ido), HRM Oba Olasunkanmi Abioye Opeola (Oniroko of Iroko), Iba Moses Akinyosoye(Onikereku of Ikereku), Oba Akano Lasisi (Onijaye of Ijaye), Akinloye Iwolabi(MON),
