Amid joyous applause and spirited cheers, kakalistiq.com reports that the bustling town of Owu-Ikosi, in Ikosi-Ejinrin LCDA, Lagos, turned out in force for the Maiden Edition of the Prince Ogunlari O. Adeyemi (TRAH) 5-Aside Football Competition. Held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, as part of the Annual Owu-Ikosi Day Celebrations, the Event was a vibrant display of Community Unity, Sportsmanship, and a showcase of emerging Talents such as Babatunde Ismaila and others.
A remarkable crowd gathered, including revered Traditional Leaders like HRM Oba Nelson Yomi Ogunlari along with Baales, Chiefs, and community Leaders, all there to support and encourage the Eight Competing Teams. The climax of the day was the thrilling Final Match, where Talent Hunt FC emerged victorious, clinching the Maiden Edition Title with an impressive 4-0 win against Tosin FC.
The Sponsor and Brainchild of the event (renown for five editions of the popular Ileya Seven-Aside Football Competition in Odoragunshin community, Epe), Prince Ogunlari O. Adeyemi, expressed excitement over the success of the First Edition. “This Competition isn’t just about Football,” he remarked. “It’s about giving back to the Community, and this time in my Home Town, bringing young people together, and uncovering the Talents that will represent our Town tomorrow.” Prince Ogunlari Adeyemi also revealed plans to make the Tournament an Annual Event, saying, “This is only the beginning. We’ll be back, bigger and better in 2025, by God’s grace.”
HRM Oba Nelson ‘Yomi Ogunlari lauded the Event and its potential impact on the Community, calling on other well-meaning Natives to support similar initiatives. “Football is only the start,” the Oba stated. “We need to create more programs that help our Youth find purpose and strengthen our Community Bond. I encourage everyone to come home and contribute—there’s no limit to what we can achieve when we invest in our people.”
The winning Coach, Adedeji of Talent Hunt Football Academy, Agbowa-Ikosi, was visibly moved by the victory, commending the Organizers for a well-executed event. “It’s one of the best ways to honor Owu-Ikosi Day,” he noted. “This event brings a sense of pride and belonging to our young athletes, who are eager to showcase their talent. We need more of this so that young talent can shine not just here, but on broader stages,” he added, praising his opponents for their valiant efforts and extending a call to both Government and Private Sectors to invest in Grassroots Sports.
The day ended with the Community buzzing in excitement and anticipation for next year’s edition, as the Local Football Field had transformed into a place not just for Competition but for dreams, unity, and the promise of a brighter future.
