His Imperial Majesty, Oba Rasidi Adewolu Ladoja (Arusa I), has endorsed the establishment of a sports school in Ibadan as part of efforts to promote youth and sports development.
The endorsement was given on Monday during a courtesy visit by members of the Ex-Ibadan Professional Footballers Association (EIPFA) to the monarch at the Olubadan Palace in Oke-Aremo, Ibadan.
According to a press release signed by the Chief Press Secretary, Chief Ayoade Solomon Ayoade, the Chairman of EIPFA, Temitope Obideyi, presented an award of recognition to the Olubadan in appreciation of his unwavering support for youth and sports development in Ibadanland.
“I am overwhelmed by this award, particularly as it recognises my efforts towards youth and sports development,” Oba Ladoja stated.
Receiving the award, the monarch expressed gratitude for the recognition.
He further assured the association of his presence, by the grace of God, at the novelty match between Ex-Ibadan Professionals and Ex-Super Eagles players scheduled for May 31, 2026, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex.
Earlier in his remarks, Mr. Obideyi expressed appreciation to the monarch for the warm reception accorded the delegation. He disclosed that the proposed sports school in Ibadan has received approval from the Oyo State Ministry of Education, noting that the initiative is aimed at discovering, nurturing, and empowering talented youths in sports.
He added that the one-day sports fiesta slated for May 31, 2026, will promote sports development, foster unity among past and present athletes, and provide a platform for discussions on the welfare of sportsmen and women, as well as the future of sporting activities in Ibadan and Nigeria at large.
Also present at the event was the former President-General of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII), Bayo Oyero.
Leave a Reply