As part of efforts to promote community support and sportsmanship especially at the grassroots level, the executive chairman of Oluyole local government, Engr. Akeem Olatunji, has disbursed cash prizes to winners of a local 5-a-side football tournament on New Year’s Day.
The tournament which aimed to encourage local residents on physical fitness and therapeutic exercises had eight teams compete against each other for different cash prizes.
After thrilling encounters that saw teams eliminate one another out of every stage, Al-Kitab and Sanyo FC eventually locked horns at the final thriller held at the open field of Agbamu Community Primary School, Sanyo area, Oluyole local government, Ibadan.
Al-Kitab eventually defeated Sanyo FC with a 3 goals to nill on a penalty shootout after the match ended goalless draw at final whistle to claim the cash prize.
Second and third placed winners also went home with cash prizes at the end of the thrilling tournament.
Speaking shortly before presenting the cash prize awards, Olatunji emphasized the importance of sports in promoting unity, discipline, and healthy lifestyle.
He explained that physical fitness is not just about looking good nothing that it’s about feeling good and being the best of oneself.
He added that the tournament was his way of encouraging young people at the grassroots to stay active, build teamwork, and chase their dreams both on and off the pitch.
Olatunji, known for his dedication and immense contributions to grassroots youth development and education, also announced plans to sponsor future sports initiatives.
He stated that he was keenly following the leadership style of governor Seyi Makinde and his approach to governance while still maintaining healthy living.
Olatunji, who was full of praises to the governor, noted that Makinde’s pragmatism and exemplary leadership was a gift to many young politicians who are desirous of also writing their names in the history books as heroes.
He assured that he would not relent in formulating and implementing policies that would further improve the quality of life of his people in Oluyole local government even the new year begins in earnest.
“This is just the beginning. I want to see more young talents rise through events like this, and I’m committed to supporting them,” Olatunji said.
Meanwhile, the local government boss alongside the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Inclusion; Mrs. Toyin Balogun and the Executive Chairman of Oyo Housing Corporation; Hon. Ademola Omotosho, later on on January 1, 2025 commissioned a newly built ultra modern fitness center in Ibadan owned by Engr. Abduljelyl Abdulkarheem Mogaji Adanla.
Olatunji also later on new year’s day commissioned solar street lights newly installed by residents of Olorunkemi community in support of his administration’s grassroots development drive. The street lights was designed with posters carrying the image of the local government chairman as a show of solidarity and support for his government in Oluyole.