The Elemona of Ilemona, Oba Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, has unveiled plans to construct a befitting stadium in Ilemona as part of efforts to promote youth empowerment, grassroots sports development and community growth in Oyun Local Government Area and its environs.
The royal father made the pledge on Sunday during a friendly unity football match between Ilemona FC, popularly known as Lem FC, and NA Royal FC, held in Ilemona.
Speaking at the event, Oba Yusuf emphasized the importance of sports as a veritable tool for youth engagement, talent discovery and social cohesion, noting that the proposed stadium would provide a suitable platform for young people to develop their sporting abilities while contributing positively to society.
The monarch commended both Lem FC and NA Royal FC for their discipline, commitment and dedication to football development, describing their efforts as a major contribution to the growth of sports and community development in Ilemona and beyond.
According to him, the proposed facility would not only serve football activities but also become a centre for other sporting and recreational engagements capable of attracting development and investment to the community.
Oba Yusuf noted that sports remain one of the most effective instruments for promoting peace, unity and healthy living among youths, adding that his administration would continue to support initiatives that positively engage young people.
The friendly encounter, which attracted football enthusiasts, community leaders and stakeholders from within and outside Ilemona, further highlighted the growing interest in grassroots football across the region.
Reacting to the monarch’s announcement, the Sports Director of NA Royal FC, Alhaji Sulaiman Funsho Mohammed, applauded the Elemona for his unwavering commitment to youth and sports development.
He particularly appreciated the royal father’s support for the club’s planned Denmark playing tour, describing it as a significant opportunity for the players to gain international exposure and showcase their talents on a bigger stage.
Alhaji Mohammed also praised the proposed stadium project, saying it would have far-reaching benefits beyond football.
“The construction of a befitting stadium in Ilemona will add tremendous value not only to sports but to the entire community. It will create opportunities for talent development, economic activities and social interaction, while also placing Ilemona on the map as an emerging sporting destination,” he said.
Residents and sports stakeholders who attended the event expressed optimism that the project would open a new chapter in the sporting history of Oyun Local Government Area, providing modern facilities capable of hosting major competitions and youth development programmes.
The proposed stadium is expected to complement the numerous developmental projects already championed by Oba Nurudeen Alowonle Yusuf, whose vision of transforming Ilemona into a “Small London” has continued to earn widespread commendation from indigenes and visitors alike.
Over the years, the monarch has been at the forefront of initiatives aimed at improving infrastructure, youth empowerment, education and community development, with sports now emerging as another key pillar of his transformation agenda.
For many football enthusiasts in the area, the planned stadium represents more than a sporting facility; it is a symbol of hope, progress and the determination of a community committed to building a brighter future for its younger generation.
