Sport

Segun Odegbami Appointed as Grand Sports Ambassador in Ogun

By Web News 64

By Abimbola Bamgbose

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has appointed the former Nigerian International Footballer, Mr Segun Odegbami, as the Grand Sports Ambassador of the Gateway State.

Governor Abiodun made the announcement while receiving members of the Guild of Sports Editors at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

He noted that the appointment was in recognition of Chief Odegbami’s immense contributions to the development of sports in Nigeria.

The governor also revealed that the 22nd edition of the National Sports Festival, tagged “Gateway Games 2024,” will be hosted by Ogun State from May 16 to May 30 2025.

He emphasized that the festival is expected to be the best in the history of the event, with a major focus on talent discovery and the promotion of sporting excellence both in the state and across the country.

Governor Abiodun stated that the state government has invested heavily in state-of-the-art sports facilities across various locations to ensure a memorable experience for all participants.

For the first time in the history of the National Sports Festival, over 10,000 athletes from the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, FCT, will be accommodated in a single location.

He added that adequate transportation logistics, including shuttle buses, have been arranged to ensure smooth movement of athletes and officials to various venues. In addition, comprehensive security measures have been put in place to safeguard lives and property throughout the festival.

Speaking on the economic impact of the event, Governor Abiodun said the festival presents an opportunity to build a robust sports economy for the state.

He noted that local businesses, especially hotels and small-scale traders, are expected to enjoy significant patronage during the games.

The governor called on media professionals to support the state government through extensive coverage of the event, assuring them of the government’s readiness to collaborate with the media to ensure a successful hosting.

In his response, Mr Segun Odegbami expressed gratitude to Governor Abiodun for the honor and pledged to use his new role to further promote sports development in Ogun State.

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Sport

Investment in Sports is Game Changer, Enthusiasts Tell Administrators

By Web News 434

By Segun Folarin

Sports administrators should invest resources in regional competitions to foster peace and promote national development.

A cross-section of sports enthusiasts canvassed this in Abeokuta while speaking with Radio Nigeria on the occasion of the International Day of Sports for Development and Peace. 

Correspondent Olusegun Folarin reports that the sports lovers were optimistic that, if harnessed effectively, sports would help to check criminal tendencies among the youths.

Sport remains a universal language and powerful tool to promote peace, tolerance and understanding and is capable of bringing people together across boundaries, cultures and religions.

The United Nations’ proclamation of 6th April every year as International Day of Sports for Development and Peace is an opportunity to recognize the positive roles of sports and physical activities in the lives of individuals and communities, across the globe.

In Nigeria, sports, especially football, had over the years proved to be a unifying factor, connecting the citizens, regardless of tribal, ethnic and religious beliefs.

A vivid example was the passionate support shown by Nigerians during the African Cup of Nations in Cote d’Ivoire where the people rose in support of the Super Eagles despite the prevailing economic challenges confronting the nation.

In separate contributions, Acting General Manager, Gateway United Football Club, Mr Niyi Soleye and a Sports Administrator, Alhaji Adeniji Adebayo affirmed that there had been situations where sports championships were organized among local communities as part of efforts to broker peace and settle disagreements. 

Also, the President, the Wheelchair Basketball Federation of Nigeria, Mr Seyi Johnson and a Sports Psychologist, Pastor Paul Bankole, who advocated increased attention by the government, said sports could enhance the social and economic status of individuals, especially the physically challenged, in the bid to reduce Street begging.

A  former National Publicity Secretary of the Society for Peace Studies and Practice, Dr Ademolu Okuneye described sports as a powerful instrument that could be deployed in resolving conflicts in communities and also serve as economic advancement in the society.

Other contributors also applauded the global theme for this year’s International Day of Sport for Development and Peace, “Sports for the Promotion of Peaceful and Inclusive Societies”, noting the need for relevant authorities to promote public-private partnerships aimed at ensuring sustainable growth in the sports industry.

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Sport

FG should invest more in youths’ development – Business Mogul

By Web News 498

By Olawale Asake

There is the need for the Federal Government through the Ministry of Sports Development and that of Youth Development to invest more resources in the teeming youths in the Country to enhance their potential.

A United States based businessman and Squash player, Dr. Olutayo Obi stated this while speaking with Radio Nigeria during his visit to Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre, Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan, Oyo State.

Dr. Obi who was elated with the level of development and equipment at the Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre using for the benefit of Nigerians, called on the government to support and encourage the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde in her efforts to make the youth develop their God-given talent through Sports and skill acquisition.

“I am happy that Ambassador Ayinde is engaging the youths positively through sports, thus taking their minds off social vices and again producing athletes that can win laurels for the country”

“I salute Kayrom Lee for her never die spirit in making the development of the youths and wellness her priority”

“People like Ambassador Ayinde are very rare in the society and she should be encouraged to do more. For her to equip a Science Laboratory and make it available free for students in the State she deserves encouragement”

Dr. Obi added that, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde has been using her personal resources to support the Youths and the less privileged to reduce crime rate in the society, saying, she is engaging the youths, for them to be self reliant in the future.

Responding, the Entrepreneur and Chief Executive Officer, Kayrom Lee Gym and Fitness Centre, Ibadan, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde said, her passion for Sports and Youths Development was to support the government towards making the Youths useful for nation’s development.

It would be recalled that, Ambassador Ayinde is the Chairperson of Netball Association, Oyo State who is bringing school girls across the State together to play the game of Netball and make them compete favorably with other players.

Sport

Boamah’s demise is a rude shock – Commissioner for Sports Development Says

By Web News 430

By Olusegun Folarin

The Commissioner for Sports Development in Ogun State, Mr Wasiu Isiaka has described the death of  Former Gateway United FC Head coach Phillip Boamah as painful and shocking.

Boamah, who was a member of the 1976 Africa Cup winners cup triumph squad died at the University Teaching Hospital Ibadan last Thursday.

Boamah scored a goal in the first leg of the final match against Tonnere Kalala of Cameroon in 1976.

He played most of his club football for the IICC Shooting Stars football club of Ibadan.

Mr Isiaka in statement through his Media aide, Ayobami Disu said the late Boamah was an exceptional football administrator and coach whose indelible footprints would remained a reference point.

He has joined the likes of Kunle Awesu, Moses Otolorin, Best Ogedengbe , Muda Lawal, Joe Appiah, Sam Ojebode and Folorunso Gambari who had all died.

According to commissioner for Sports Development,  late Boamah will be remembered, not only for his sheer brilliance and exemplary work ethic, but also for his willingness to share his time and expertise with his colleagues and players.

He prayed God to grant the families and friends of the deceased the fortitude to bear the loss of an icon in the football world.

Sport

Ogun Sports Council Makes Case for Athletes Welfare Ahead of NSF

By Web News 453

By Olusegun Folarin

The General Manager, Ogun State Sports Council, Mrs. Iyabode Rotimi has appealed to the state government to provide modern equipment and ensure payment of competitive maintenance allowances to athletes to reduce the cases of poaching athletes by other states

Mrs Rotimi made the appeal while receiving the newly appointed Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka, who paid a familiarization visit to the management and members of staff of the sports council at Ijeja, Abeokuta.

Describing the issue of poaching Ogun state athletes as worrisome, the Ogun State Sports Council general manager expressed the readiness of the entire management and staff of the council to work harmoniously with the commissioner to achieve the set goals.

Responding, the Commissioner for Sports Development, Mr Wasiu Isiaka who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary in the ministry, Dr Qudus Yusuff, said the preparation for the refurbishments of the sporting facilities as well as procurement of equipment was in top gear.

Mr Isiaka restated the readiness of the state government to give necessary support towards the success of the forthcoming National Sports Festival.

The commissioner used the opportunity of the visit to tour the sporting arena and was able to have an on-the-spot assessment of all the facilities and equipment being used at the stadium.

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Politics

Makinde Gives New Commissioners Road Map

By Web News 354

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde has urged newly sworn- in commissioners to properly assimilate the policy direction of his administration as captured in his road map for sustainable development and draw up deliverables that would benefit the people.

He stated this at the swearing-in ceremony for the commissioner for Health and Commissioner for Youths and Sports as new additions to his cabinet held at the Executive Chambers Office, Ibadan. 

Governor Makinde enjoined the Commissioner for Health, Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetumobi to drive the vision of establishing a category 3 Primary Health Care (PHC) centres across various wards, synergizing with the agency on health insurance scheme to ensure qualitative health for all amongst other core mandate as health remains a major pillar of his administration.

The governor equally admonished the Commissioner for Youths and Sport, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, as the youngest member of the cabinet to brace up to the demands of her office without timidity, ensuring that youth development goes beyond sport but advancing interventions in technology and education for youths.

Governor Makinde added that his administration was set to commence the second phase of development for Lekan Salami Sport Complex Adamasingba.

Responding to public criticism over his travelling to watch the US Open Women and Men’s Championship, Governor Makinde said beyond his commitment to serve the people as governor, he would continue to do things that would make him happy as an individual. 

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Sport

OSHA Meets Stakeholders, Seeks Collaboration for Sports Development

By Web News 469

By Mojisola Oladele 

Osun State House of Assembly wants Ministries and Agencies of the State Government to see the development of the State as a collective efforts.

The Chairman, House Committee on Youths , Sports and Special needs , Mr. Abiola Awoyeye made the call during the maiden meeting of the committee with the Ministry of Youth , Osun Cares and Osun Sports Council held at the Parliamentary section of the Assembly Complex, Osogbo.

Mr. Awoyeye explained that the essence of the meeting was aimed at exchanging views on ways to develop Sporting activities in the State with a view to boosting the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.

He urged the Ministry to ensure that the Legislative Arm is carried along with thier day to day operations and decisions as it affects the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Osun Cares and Osun Sports Council.

Mr. Awoyeye however directed the Ministry of Youth Affairs and its affiliates furnish the House with their financial activities from the inception of the present administration for clarification.

In separate remarks, Deputy Majority leader, Mr. Adekunle Oladimeji and Member Representing Ifedayo State Constituency, Prince Kasope Abolarin described the Youths as key in the development of any society , hence the need to support them.

While emphasizing that they are acting within the confine of the Rule of Law, the legislators said they would soon visit the places of intervention by the State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke to know how they were being utilized.

Earlier in his address , the State Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Mr. Moshood Olagunju who said work was in progress as regards IMOLE YOUTH CORPs recruitment , informed the committee of its challenges, various Interventions of the State Government and called for increase in Budgetary allocation for the Ministry.

Other legislators in the Osun State House of Assembly Committee on Youths , Sports and Special needs are Mr.Olatunbosun Oyewole and Mr.Olujinmi Asagade.

Sport

Boost  for Job Creation as Osun Poises to Facelift Sports

By Web News 462

By Mojisola Oladele

Osun State House of Assembly in collaboration with the State Government is set to give sport activities a face lift to create job opportunities for the youths. 

The Chairman, House Committee on Youths, Sports and Special Needs and Member, Representing Ife Central, Mr. Abiola Awoyeye stated this in an interview with Gold FM in Osogbo.

While emphasizing that some youths had made significant success in sports as a profession, Mr. Awoyeye explained that it was high time for the youths to tapped into various opportunities aimed at improving their lives and the society at large for the better. 

The lawmaker assured his constituents of his resolve to work towards attaining the five cardinal points he outlined during the electioneering campaign which are health, education, security, helping the youth and assisting micro, small and medium enterprises, MSMEs to thrive. 

Mr. Awoyeye urged the Youth to focus on legal ways of making money and making positive impact into the Society.

” They can expect expedient transformation , we are going to use Sports to transform the youth, because a lot of Youths are invested in Sports and is not everybody that would be an Engineer or Medical Doctor , Some people through sports they can make a name and make a way for their own life” Mr. Awoyeye

” I have some Bills on Education already, in Ile- ife I want to facilitate a Special Needs Secondary , we have a Special needs Primary School , Education for less – privileged and disabled People are Important because they are part of the Society. “

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Sport

FRCN Ibadan Summit: Undue interference of govt. in sports injurious – Speakers

By Web News 440

By Dayo Adu

Should government continue to unnecessarily interfere in sports, it is bound to stunt its growth in the country.

Speakers made the remark in their various presentations at the 2023 Sports Summit organised by the Department of Outside Broadcast and Sports, Radio Nigeria, Ibadan Zonal Station.

The speakers, who spoke on the theme, Sports as a Business Catalyst were of the opinions that over the years, management of the sports sector had been policitised, hence, the low performance and rating of the Nigeria contingents at international tournaments.

Speaking on government interference, ineptitude and lack of accountability a veteran sports Journalist and retired Director of OB and Sports at Radio Nigeria headquarter Abuja, Mr. Shina Abimbola explained that people saddled with the responsibility of administration of sports and maintenance of facilities are often inexperienced, and this remains injurious to the sector.

Mr Abimbola canvassed for discipline in the Federal Ministry of Sports and the National Sports Commission to attract sponsorship and partnership of the private sectors to boost the nation’s sports development.

In another presentation, Chairman Athletics Federation of Nigeria, Oyo State Chapter, Mr. Isaac Ogala called on Government to create sports friendly environment for games to thrive. 

 Mr. Ogala enjoined government to desist from politicising sports, bring back its culture in public schools and reward outstanding performance.

The Zonal Director FRCN Ibadan Zonal Station Mr Dominic Mokikan, represented by Deputy Director Engineering Services, Engineer Gabriel Ajayi called on government to tap into the business opportunities in sports to tackle the economic challenges of the nation.

Chairman on the occasion, Mr Benjamin Okorie charged the national sports management to explore opportunities in cycling to shore up the nation’s glory among the comity of nations.

Winner of gold medal in table tennis at the first National Sports Festival in 1973, Alhaji Waheed Ẹkùn, who lamented his being not compensated till his retirement 30 years ago, advocated the creation of enabling environment and adequate reward for Nigerian sports talents.

Member of the Federal House of Representatives from Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency, Engineer Remi Oseni, represented by Alhaji Niyi Yusuf, charged Nigerians to renew interest in the national sporting league so as to boost the business opportunities inherent in the sector.

Earlier in an address of welcome, Deputy Director OB and Sports, Dr. Abiodun Ogidan noted that playing politics with the nation’s sports sector would inhibit talent discovery in the country.

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Sport

Abiodun Inaugurates Committee for 2024 National Sports Festival

By Web News 421

By Bolanle Adesida

Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has inaugurated the Organising Committee for the 2024 National Sports Festival with a promise to surpass the achievements recorded during the previous editions of the game.

Governor Abiodun, who gave the assurance during the inauguration of the committee at the Executive Chambers of the Governor’s office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, said the state was ready to put in place world class sporting infrastructure across the length and breadth of the state.

He reaffirmed his determination to use the competition to showcase the talent, culture, potential and the unique sense of hospitality of the people of the state.

Governor Abiodun who noted that the National Sports Festival would bring together the energy, creativity of youths in the country said the biennial event also serve as a platform for them to showcase their diverse talents and potentials.

He described the festival as a testament to the commitment of his administration to empower the next generation by offering them the opportunity for growth and self development, the Governor implored members of the committee to embrace the responsibility given to them with a deep sense of purpose.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee and former Commissioner for Youths and Sports in the State, Mr Bukola Olopade had  commended Governor Dapo Abiodun for bidding and winning the right to host a successful National Sports Festival.

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Sport

Eguavoen Steps Down as Super Eagles Head Coach

By Web News 603

Technical Adviser of the Super Eagles, Austin Eguavoen has stepped down following the failure of the Super Eagles of Nigeria to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

A statement from the Nigeria Football Federation, NFF says, the Federation has in the meantime withdrawn the two-and-half years contract offered the coaches and terminated the appointment of the entire technical crew of the team with immediate effect.

It notes that a new crew will be announced after a proper review to lead the new charge of reinvigorating the Super Eagles to face future challenges appropriately.

According to NFF General Secretary, Dr Mohammed Sanusi, “We thank the coaches and team officials for their service to the nation and wish them success in their future endeavours,”

Olaolu Fawole

Sport

Ogun Commissioner Tasks Sports Journalists on Capacity Building

By Web News 711

Ogun state government has reaffirmed its determination to use sports as an instrument to promote, empower and take youths away from criminal acts in an effort to put them on the right track.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Alhaji Waheed Odusile stated this while declaring open the 2021 Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, SWAN week in Abeokuta.

Alhaji Odusile who acknowledged the importance of sports towards building a virile society said the business of sports development should not be shouldered on government alone but a collective responsibility.

The Commissioner for Information and Strategy who is also the chairman of the occasion stressed the need for the sportswriters to embark on more developmental programmes that would assist the state in raising strong sportsmen and women from the untapped abundant resources across the state.

Alhaji Odusile encouraged the leadership of the association in the state to give priority to the capacity building of members apart from organizing competitions.

In a lecture entitled ” Quality Registration Towards a Sustainable Sports Policy in Nigeria” the Speaker, Ogun state House of Assembly, Prince Olakunle Oluomo said implementation of the existing laws remained a challenge to achieve the desired results.

Prince Oluomo who was represented by Mr Kola Ishola reaffirmed the commitment of the 9th assembly to quality legislation that would enhance sports development in the state.

Earlier, The Chairman, Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, Ogun state Chapter, Alhaji Hakeem Akintunde had noted that appropriate legislation would enable the younger generation to participate in sports without fear.

Alhaji Akintunde gave the assurance that the association would not relent in its efforts to ensure development of sports in the state through regular interaction with stakeholders in the sector.

Olusegun Folarin

Crime

Internet Fraud: Sports betting agent, 10 others jailed in Ibadan

By Web News 741

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal Command, secured eleven convictions on Thursday, before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The convicts are: El-muqsit Shola Folorunsho, Olatubosun Tomiwa (a.k.a Scott Belinda), Idowu Abolaji Olajide, Akintunde Micheal (a.k.a Alex Mary), Aladejobi Gladdious Adeniyi (a.k.a Melissa Stockstill), Odewunmi Samuel Oluwapelumi, Adeyemi Abraham Ismail (a.k.a Victoria Vivan), Taiwo Gbolahan Olasunkanmi, Tomiwa Rasheed Saliu, Olalere Samad Olamilekan and Taofeek Opeyemi Akingbade (a.k.a Alice Jones).

They were convicted on separate one-count charges of fraudulent representation contrary to Section 22 (2) and punishable under Section 22 (2)(b)(iv) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act 2015.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, Ibadan Zonal Command, secured eleven convictions on Thursday, before Justice Uche Agomoh of the Federal High Court, Ibadan, Oyo State.

The convicts are: El-muqsit Shola Folorunsho, Olatubosun Tomiwa (a.k.a Scott Belinda), Idowu Abolaji Olajide, Akintunde Micheal (a.k.a Alex Mary), Aladejobi Gladdious Adeniyi (a.k.a Melissa Stockstill), Odewunmi Samuel Oluwapelumi, Adeyemi Abraham Ismail (a.k.a Victoria Vivan), Taiwo Gbolahan Olasunkanmi, Tomiwa Rasheed Saliu, Olalere Samad Olamilekan and Taofeek Opeyemi Akingbade (a.k.a Alice Jones).

They were convicted on separate one-count charges of fraudulent representation contrary to Section 22 (2) and punishable under Section 22 (2)(b)(iv) of Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention, Etc) Act 2015.

The charge against El- muqsit who claims to be an agent with Betnaija reads, “That you EL- MUQSIT SHOLA FOLORUNSHO sometime in 2020, within the jurisdiction of this Honourable Court, did aid some suspected internet fraudsters now at large to commit a felony, to wit: impersonation, to gain advantage for themselves and thereby committed an offence contrary to section 27(1) (b) and punishable under section 27(2) of the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention etc) Act, 2015”.

Adewumi Faniran/Mega Icon

Sport

Oyo State Launches Sports Stakeholders Database

By Web News 1275

In a bid to bring more development to the sport sector, Oyo state government has launched the database for relevant stakeholders.

The launch of the database which took place at the office of the state’s commissioner for Youth and Sports has its website as www.pacesettergsd.com.

A foundation, Advocates for Grassroots Sports Foundation (AFGRAS), partnering the state on the sport project is to collate and manage the database of sports stakeholders in the state with a view to bringing development to the sporting arena in Oyo state.

Speaking at the event, Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr Seun Fakorede explained that the initiative would expand the state economy through sporting activities, generate employment and help to discover sports talents.

The commissioner while emphasising the significant of effective data management as a tool for proper planning for development said the database would showcase the state sports potentials to the globe.

Earlier, the leader of the Advocates for Grassroots Sports Foundation, Mr. Bob Olukoya lauded the present government’s commitment to sport development in the state.

He stated that the state sports talents would be exposed to the world through data collations and management.

Mr Odukoya equally gave an assurance that the site would be properly secured so as to achieve its aim and objectives

Adebisi Iyabo

Sport

Oyo Govt. Plans to Harness Talent from Grassroots Sports

By Web News 883

Oyo state government says it will go back to the grassroots to discover sports talents for the state.

The state Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mr. Seun Fakorede made this known while speaking with Radio Nigeria in his office.

According to Mr. Fakorede, the Ministry of Youth and Sports believes in discovering raw talents for the state’s owned football clubs and there are plans to refine grassroots sports competitions such as Governor’s and Principal’s Cup football competitions to be able to tap the talents in their raw forms.

While recalling the good old days of 3SC, the sports commissioner explained that all the potentials were discovered locally, noting that the present administration had decided to return to the pattern.

“There are times that what we need is around us, so we are going back to the roots to revitalize sports because that is where we will see raw talents and we believe in their potentials” Fakorede told Radio Nigeria.

The youth commissioner who disclosed that the state was not owing any of its Athletes allowances, expressed optimism that the state’s contingent will shine at the forthcoming National Sports Festival coming up next month in Edo State.

On the ongoing remodeling of Lekan Salami stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, Mr. Fakorede said the project was well planned to give the state sporting sector a face lift and to attract income generation through sports.

He hinted that modalities had been put in place to ensure proper maintenance of the stadium after completion.

“We are building people in Oyo state that will build sports and facilities, and as much we are spending on the stadium, we are also spending wisely on Institutions that will maintain the stadium the way it ought to be maintained”

The Oyo state sports commissioner disclosed that the completion of the stadium would increase the chances of the state in hosting national and International Sports Competitions.

Olaolu Fawole

Sport

Ogun Government Enlists Private Sectors’ Support in Developing Sports

By Web News 718

Ogun State Government says the development of sports in the state requires the concerted efforts of groups, individuals and private sectors.

The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Dr Oluwadare Kehinde stated this at the donation of sporting equipment to some players in Abeokuta, put together by Germany based former Nigerian table tennis player Adedapo Akiode.

Dr. Kehinde, who was represented his special assistant, Mr Shodeinde Olawale said the present administration in Ogun State had mapped out strategies towards the development of sports.

In their contributions, former chairman, Ogun State House Assembly Committee on Sports, Mr Femi Allen-Taylor, and legendary Olympian, Mrs Falilat Ogunkoya commended the donor and appealed to well-meaning Ogun indigenes to key into the idea in a bid to take the sports to an enviable heights in the state.

Also, the acting director of the state sports council, Mrs Iyabode Rotimi, who encouraged the recipients of the equipment to put them into good use, appreciated MrAkiodefor making it an annual ritual to extend love to athletes from Ogun state.

In a remark, the former Nigerian table tennis player, Mr Akiode explained that the donation of the sporting equipment to the young athletes was part of his contributions to the development of sports in the state

One of the beneficiaries, Bankole Babatunde who is the current number one Nigerian junior badminton player, commended the donor and encouraged other well-meaning individuals in the country to emulate Mr Akiode in assisting young athletes with necessary tools to make them become great sportsmen and women.

 Items including table tennis and badminton equipment like balls, rubbers, canvases, bags, shirts among others were distributed to young players in the state.

Olusegun Folarin