By Pelumi Abiara
In hindsight of the successes achieved with youth engagement and development using football as the major tool in Ekiti State in the past season, the Ekiti State Football Association Chairman, Mr. Bayo Olanlege has credited these gains to the sponsors of the various competitions and innovations introduced by his leadership of the FA.
The Ekiti FA boss lauded the sponsors as the true protagonists of the drive to build a sustainable Ekiti Football Ecosystem which continually engages and develops the youth of the state using the round leather game.
Earlier in 2021, the family of late football-loving Oluyin of Iyin Ekiti sponsored the Oba Ademola Ajakaiye Memorial U13 football competition, while the Grand Patron of Ekiti FA Cadet Teams and Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode bankrolled the Professor Akin Oyebode U-15 football competition for boys and girls in the name of the family’s patriarch.
Moreso, there was the BAFEM CUP in 2021 which was sponsored by a Member, House of Representatives representing Ekiti South Federal Constituency 2, Rt. Hon. Olufemii Bamisile, desiring to create a platform for talented footballers in the state to showcase their talents.
Bet9ja and its Agents in Ekiti, Owu Sportswear Limited, TZAR Foundation, and Olutade Gboyega Foundation funded the Ekiti State FA Scholarship Scheme initiative, creating a sweet mix of education and football as ten outstanding players; boys and girls, had their school fees paid and also received sports kits through the scheme.
These goodies also percolated down to the Local Football Councils as the Ekiti State FA is rounding off the football season with the Unity Cup competitions being hosted by the Local Football Councils and sponsored by individuals, families, organizations, and foundation which includes but is not limited to; Prince Adedoyin Adeyinka, Hon. Yemi Ajayi, Princess Iyabo Fakunle Okiemien among others.
