Kwara Football Academy (KFA) on Sturday December 31, 2022 defeated MM Oil and Gas Football Club to win the 15th edition of late Michael Bolarinwa Olagunju memorial football competition decided at the Oloffa Stadium, Offa.
The match ended goalless at regulathion time, and the heroics of goalkeeper Daniel Aiyenugba during the penalty kicks ensured the Academy Boys win the encounter 5-4 on penalties.
Oluyole Flaming Queens of Ibadan had ealier defeated Biola Queens of Offa by a lone goal to win the 9th late Princess Maria Arinola Olagunju female inter-state competition.
The Administrator of the Academy, Mallam Ibrahim Oladele Bako thanked Almighty Allah for ending the year on the high, describing the victory as well deserving.
He commended the boys for their resilience and determination, even as he thanked the state Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq and the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bola Mogaji for their support.
He therefore, dedicated the victory to the Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, whom he described as sports loving.
About 40 youth football teams from Offa and neighbouring communities and states participated in the grassroots football competition that has now become a standing ritual in Offa, and which is being sponsored by Prince Soji Olagunju.
Meanwhile, the Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bola Mogaji has commended the organizers and sponsor of Prince Michael Bolarinwa Olagunju and Princess Maria Arinola Olagunju male and female soccer competitions.
The Executive Chairman, while making his remarks at the final of the 15th and 9th editions praised the initiative of the sponsor for the annual competitions which he described as a grassroots sports that provides avenue for talent discovery.
He urged the organizers not to relent in their efforts as the competition has become an annual event that attracts scouts to Offa.
Mogaji also enjoined traditional rulers and prominent chiefs in Offa and its environs to sponsor sports like table tennis and other racquet games, to encourage the youth to participate in sports.
In his brief speech at the occasion, the Olofa of offa, Oba Mufutau Gbadamosi Okikiola Esuwoye ll noted that gone are the days when parents and guidance discourage their wards from taking to sports, but today, the reverse is the case.
The Monarch gave the organizers a pat on the back for engaging the youth meaningful, and for promoting unity among the people of Offa and its suburbs
The sponsor, Soji Olagunju pledged to continue to support the competition.
