Engineer Seyi Makinde, the governor of Oyo State has lauded the initiative and role of the owner of Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, Engr. Dotun Sanusi in the development of sports and human capital in the state.
Governor Makinde gave the commendation during the kick-off of the much awaited Ilaji Football League on Thursday held at the newly renovated main-bowl of Ilaji Resort Stadium, Akanran, Ibadan.
The Ilaji Football League was sponsored by the Chairman of the sports resort, Engr. Dotun Sanusi.
Engr. Seyi Makinde, who was represented at the kick-off by the state’s Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Seun Fakorede, expressed the determination of the present administration to develop the state through sports.
He said that the only way to realize the objective of developing the state through sport is by properly funding sporting activities which his administration is ready to take up as a serious task.
The governor expressed that the football league is not only to promote unity, but also to serve as a career platform for the teeming youths of Oyo State.
Governor Makinde commended the initiator of the league and Chairman of the sports resort for investing in sporting infrastructure, saying that it will go a long way in developing the state’s economy.
He enjoined other well to do individuals in the state to follow the path of Engr. Sanusi’s doggedness and determination to better the lot of the people of the state.
The governor used the opportunity to reiterate the commitment of his administration not relent in providing necessary support to the Shooting Stars Sports Club and other professional clubs in the state.
Engr. Dotun Sanusi, in a chat with journalists, revealed that his passion to discover, promote, and nurture youths with talents to prominence with a view of giving them decent living was the reason why he sponsored the league.
He said the opportunity will enable them to showcase their God-given talents to the world.
Engr. Sanusi stated “the clamour to see our sports’ men and women performing at the highest level must be met with provision of world class sporting infrastructure. It is after the society has done its part that we can now demand from the athletes”.
The ceremonial kick-off was performed by the Commissioner, Hon. Seun Fakorede in the presence of the Olubadan of Ibadan land, Oba Saliu Adetunji, the Iba of Kishi, Ona-Onibode of Igboho, Baagi of Saki land and stakeholders from the state Ministry of Youths and Sports.
Meanwhile, in the opening match of the day, Ibarapa United emerged winner defeating Iseyin United by three goals to two. While Ibadan United defeated Igboho United by the same goals margin.
Oyo United kept a clean sheet when they thrashed Ogbomosho United by two goals to nothing. The last match of the week saw Kishi United defeat Igbeti United by three goals to one.
Packaged by Kunle Gazali
