kakalistiq.com reports that the Eredo Local Council Development Area (LCDA) officially launched the 2024 Chairman’s Cup on Monday, December 16, 2024, in a ceremony that featured a press conference and match draws. Held at the Marriage Registry Hall of the Council Secretariat, the event brought together key stakeholders to celebrate the kickoff of the much-anticipated football tournament.
The launch was graced by notable dignitaries, including Hon. Sikiru Ladega, Chief of Staff; Hon. Adelaja Adekunle, Supervisor for Agriculture and Chairman of the Committee; Hon. Azeez Ilesanmi, Special Adviser on Youth and Agriculture; Mr. Owodina Yakubu, Head of Agric Department; Mr. Adekoya F.O., Chairman of the Epe Divisional Football Association (EDFA); and Mr. Arasomwan Noja G., representing the Nigerian Referees’ Society.
Speaking on behalf of the Executive Chairman, Hon. Monsuru Akinloye, Hon. Adelaja Adekunle emphasized the competition’s broader goals. “This competition is not just about football; it is about unity, discipline, and nurturing the immense talents in our community. It is an opportunity to inspire dreams and build champions who will make Eredo LCDA proud,” he said.
Mr. Adekoya F.O., in his remarks, highlighted the importance of discipline and sportsmanship during the tournament. “The success of this competition depends on your commitment to fair play and respect for the rules. We expect every team to conduct themselves with the highest level of sportsmanship,” he stressed.
The press conference featured the announcement of significant updates to the tournament rules. The committee reduced fines for yellow and red cards to ₦500 and ₦1,000, respectively, to promote fairness and accessibility for all teams.
Igbonla vs. Odogbawojo; Imokun vs. Odoragunshin; Odo-ayan vs. Ibonwon; Igbooye vs. Odoshiwola and Iraye vs. Odogbonle. Others include Eredo vs. Poka, Ilara vs. Odomola; Odoegiri vs. Aladeshonyin
Hon. Adelaja revealed that the LCDA had fully sponsored registration fees and forms for all teams. “The Chairman has ensured that no financial barriers will stop anyone from participating in this exciting tournament,” he said.
The competition, which begins on Wednesday, December 18, 2024, offers a grand prize of ₦1 million for the winning team, while the runner-up will take home ₦500,000. Matches will be hosted at AUD Primary School, Odo-Egiri, and St. Patrick Secondary School, Eredo.
“The goal of this competition is to promote community development and healthy living among the youth,” Hon. Adelaja added. “With 16 clubs registered, this is more than a sporting event; it is a platform to unite and empower our young people.”
Hon. Adelaja urged all teams to remain disciplined and punctual throughout the tournament. “We have zero tolerance for acts of hooliganism or unruly behavior. This competition is about building a positive legacy for Eredo LCDA, and we expect all participants to uphold that vision,” he concluded.
The meeting ended with a review of tournament rules and regulations, during which the event committee addressed and approved several rule changes to accommodate fairness and inclusivity.
