The Executive Chairman of Ibadan North Local Government, Hon. Oluwaseun Olufade, popularly known as Onala, has been honoured with an Award of Support by the organisers of the Iya Meta 6-A-Side Football Competition for his contributions to sports development and youth empowerment in the local government.
The award, which was presented to the chairman in recognition of his consistent support for the competition and youth-oriented sporting initiatives, was received on his behalf by his Head of Media, Aderibigbe Yisahu Ajibola, alongside members of his entourage.
Those who accompanied the Head of Media included Hon. Adewumi Adeagbo, Supervisory Councillor for Special Duties; Hon. Olowolayemo, Supervisory Councillor for Works; and Hon. Kazeem Ibuowo, Special Assistant to the Chairman.
Speaking on the rationale behind the award, the organisers said Hon. Olufade deserved the honour because of his unwavering support for the competition and his commitment to initiatives that promote sports, youth development and community engagement.
According to Aderibigbe Yisahu, the chairman had consistently demonstrated genuine interest in sports and had made meaningful contributions towards the growth and development of sporting activities within Ibadan North Local Government.
Receiving the award on behalf of the chairman, Olufade’s Head of Media, Aderibigbe Yisahu Ajibola, expressed appreciation to the organisers for recognising the chairman’s contributions and finding him worthy of the honour.
Yisahu described Hon. Olufade as a passionate lover of sports and a chairman deeply committed to the wellbeing and advancement of young people.
He further described Olufade as a youth-friendly chairman, noting that his administration places considerable emphasis on youth empowerment, sports development and inclusive governance.
He assured the organisers, participants, community leaders, and residents present at the event—drawn from different ethnic backgrounds, age groups and political affiliations—of the chairman’s continued support for sports and other developmental initiatives.
According to him, the chairman’s commitment extends beyond sports to critical areas including youth development, infrastructure, healthcare and the general welfare of residents of Ibadan North Local Government.
“The development and progress of Ibadan North Local Government remains a top priority of the chairman.
He believes that government must be inclusive and responsive to the needs of the people, particularly young people who constitute a significant part of our population,” Yisahu said.
He added that the local government would continue to support initiatives capable of promoting unity, discovering talents and improving the wellbeing of residents.
The chairman also congratulated Bense FC, winners of the keenly contested Iya Meta 6-A-Side Football Competition, after they defeated Olive All Star FC 1–0 in the final to lift the trophy.
Olufade commended the organisers, participating teams, supporters and stakeholders for the successful organisation of the tournament, describing the competition as a commendable platform for promoting sporting talents, youth engagement and unity among residents.
He reiterated that the Ibadan North Local Government administration would continue to support developmental initiatives that bring people together, create opportunities for young people and contribute positively to the growth of the local government.
In a further demonstration of the administration’s support for grassroots sports, Aderibigbe Yisahu Ajibola presented the championship trophy to Bense FC on behalf of the chairman, officially crowning them winners of the competition.
The event also had in attendance the Oyo State House of Assembly Member representing Egbeda State Constituency, who was represented at the occasion by Hon. Agbolagade Tobiloba (Agboli). He also received an Award of Support on behalf of the lawmaker.
The colourful event brought together football enthusiasts, youths, community stakeholders and residents from different backgrounds, further underscoring the role of grassroots football in fostering unity, talent discovery and community development.
