The Executive Chairman of Offa Local Government Area, Alhaji Sulaiman Olatunji has pledged to support the growth of sports not only to develop the youths, but also as a basis for which to achieve the desired unity and togetherness, and improved security.
While answering questions on the sidelines of the lecture and draw for the 17th Prince Michael Bolarinwa Olagunju memorial competition on Thursday, November 21, 2024 in Offa, Alhaji Olatunji added that the initiative was part of his campaign promises.
The ceremony held at the Conference Hall of Offa Local Government Secretariat, Offa.
Alhaji Olatunji said that his administration will not only leverage on the sports development efforts of Kwara Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, but to use it as a rallying point for achieving oneness, unity and togetherness, which, according to him, are ingredients towards having a progressive community.
“Sports unifies people of different culture, religion and ideology, and that’s why we will employ it as a tool for the achievement of set objectives. We will encourage sports participation, and also seek the assistance of the state government in infrastructural development, just like we will be relying on the promise by the State government to renovate and modernise our stadium.
Alhaji Olatunji also pledged to support the organisation of the 17th Prince Michael Bolarinwa Olagunju Cup, and the 11th Princess Arinola Bolarinwa Olagunju female soccer competition.
While delivering lecture on ‘Negative effects of drug use in sports’, the former Principal of St. Clares Girls Secondary School, Deaconess Grace Abiodun Falokun described drug as any substance, other than food, which by its nature, affects the functions of living organism, pointing out that drug use can be positive or negative, depending on how and what is being used.
According to her, “drug use to enhance performance is detrimental, and can cause injury due to misbehaviour and over training, as it can equally affect integrity, promotion of corruption, and even death.
“Negative application of drug charges emotions and totality, and causes mental health adversely. Drug use in sports affects athletes physically, mentally and emotionally, and if detected in the systems by regulatory authorities, often leads long term ban, or even jail terms”, she added.
She described sports as an activity that encompasses both social and economic growth.
32 youth clubs and Academies from Offa and it’s environs registered to participate in the competition which is being organised by Alhaji Wasiu Bisi Lawal, the Chairman of Offa Football Council.
After the draw, M & M Oil and Gas FC, which won the last edition were seeded in Group A, and will begin their title defence against Oyaninsuwa FC, KBG FC and Lens Polytechnic FC.
In Group B are Ogbondoroko FC, Rector Boys, Bintinlaiye FC and RM Bullets. Group C has Tiki Taka FC, Iyalode FC, Bobajiro FC and Young Boys. Interior Boys will play from Group D alongside Unique FC of Omu-Aran, Mighty Jets and Ikotun United, while in Group E are Justice FC, Shooting Stars, Ajasse-Ipo United and RCCG FC.
Infinity FC will start their journey from Group F, with Republic FC, FedpOffa FC and Babache. Marking Stars are in Group G with JK Feeders, Scorpions FC and Elegbede, while the last group, Group H has Zizu Ventures FC, Golden Boys FC, Profit FC and Sporting FC.
The competition will commence this month, and end in December, with all matches to be played at the Oloffa Stadium, Offa.
The competition is being sponsored by Prince Soji Olagunju.
Among those that graced the ocassion are the Vice Chairman of the Local Government, Hon. (Chief) Mrs. Modupeola Ajibade (Nee Olawoyin), Chief O. O. Oyawoye, who is the Principal of Moremi High School, Mr. Azeez Omoluabi, Club and Academy owners, Coaches, referees and other stakeholders.
