In a grand celebration held at the Main-Bowl of the Kwara State Stadium Complex, Ilorin, on Thursday November 7, 2024, Coach Ali Zubair was honored by the Kwara State sports community, following his impressive achievements on the national and club stages.
The event, organized by the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, alongside Dikkalo FC’s Proprietor, Architect Olubunmi Komolafe, celebrated Zubair’s successes in winning the WAFU B Tournament with Nigeria’s Flying Eagles and leading El-Kanemi Warriors to both the 2024 President Federation Cup victory and promotion to the NPFL.
The celebration featured a friendly match, with teams from Kwara United U-19, Kwara Football Academy (KFA), Dikkalo FC, and NA Royal FC. In a thrilling encounter, Kwara United teamed up with KFA, while Dikkalo partnered with Na Royal, culminating in a 3-1 victory for Kwara United and KFA.
A host of dignitaries attended the event to honor Coach Zubair. Notable attendees included Honorable Owolabi Olatunde Razaq, representing Share/Oke Ode at the Kwara State House of Assembly; Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission; Alhaji Owolabi Wopa, Chairman of the Ilorin Emirate Football Council; Kwara State Director of Sports Mallam Ibrahim Oladele Bako; Alhaji Mujeeb Erubu, Chairman of Asa Local Football Council; Mallam Bayour Issah, a Board member of the Kwara Sports Commission; and Kwara State YSFON Chairman Mr. Kiyesola.
The event kicked off with Coach Ali Zubair himself making the ceremonial first touch, followed by his words of appreciation. In his speech, Coach Zubair expressed heartfelt gratitude for the support he has received throughout his career, presenting special awards to the Executive Chairman of the Sports Commission, Alhaji Owolabi Wopa, and Architect Komolafe in recognition of their invaluable contributions to sports development in Kwara State.
Various groups and individuals also came forward to present gifts and awards, honoring Coach Zubair for his dedication and contributions to football.
Speaking on behalf of Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, the Executive Chairman of the Sports Commission, Mallam Mogaji, extended the Governor’s congratulations to Coach Zubair.
He applauded Zubair for making Kwara State and Nigeria proud and encouraged him to continue nurturing young talents in the state, emphasizing the upcoming challenges of the Nations Cup and World Cup qualifiers.
However, Mogaji assured the coach that arrangements would soon be made for him to meet with Governor AbdulRazaq, a well-known supporter of sports in the state.
Honorable Owolabi, representing the Kwara House of Assembly, also praised Coach Zubair’s achievements, noting that he has become a source of pride for the entire Assembly, led by Honorable Salihu Yakub Danladi.
Alhaji Owolabi Wopa, representing the Ilorin Emirate Football Council, congratulated Zubair and expressed the Council’s ongoing prayers for his continued success.
Coach Ali Zubair’s homecoming celebration not only highlighted his recent accomplishments but underscored the commitment of Kwara State to fostering sports excellence and honoring homegrown talents who bring pride to the community and the nation.
Written by Olaide Ahli
