The Prince Dawood Oladimeji Royal Cup concluded with an impressive display of local talent as Ibadan based Oladimeji FC emerged victorious in the highly anticipated grassroots football tournament finals.
Held at the Durbar Stadium yesterday, September 7 in Oyo town, the event garnered widespread acclaim from the football luminaries and sports officials for its commitment to promoting grassroots development.
The football tournament, sponsored by one of the prospective next Alaafin of Oyo, Prince Dawood Olaide Oladimeji Agunloye of Isale Oja, Oyo, had in attendance Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Honourable Wasilat Adegoke, former Secretary-General of the Nigeria Football Federation, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba, former Nigeria international and Spanish LaLiga Ambassador, Chief Mutiu Adepoju, Oyo State Football Council Association Chairman and executive members, Coach Akintola Olatunji, Wahab Oloke, Ayodeji Adeyemo, and Yinka Popoola among others.
Former Super Eagles star, Mutiu Adepoju famously called the ‘headmaster’, in his brief remarks, praised the organizers and initiative of the tournament for its role in nurturing young and underprivileged talents.
He noted that the Prince Oladimeji Royal Cup was a testament to the importance of grassroots football in Nigeria and how such games can help discover raw talents for nurturing and development.
He added that the tournament provides a crucial platform for young players to showcase their skills and potentially launch their careers in the round leather game.
Similarly, Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba, also shared same sentiment. He commended the tournament organizers for their dedication to supporting grassroots sports development and creating a platform for local football players to showcase their talents for discovery.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, while speaking to westernmirror.com.ng shortly after the game said, “grassroots tournaments like these are essential for the growth of the sport.
“They not only help in identifying future stars but also in building a stronger footballing culture within the community.
The Ibarapa born young Commissioner also lauded the successful execution of the tournament saying: “The Prince Oladimeji Royal Cup has proven to be a remarkable event that aligns with the vision of His Excellency, Governor Seyi Makinde for enhancing sports development at the grassroots level.
“We are committed to continuing our support for such initiatives, which are vital for the advancement of our local football scene.”
At the end on the final match, Oladimeji FC from Ibadan defeated D’Way Up FC Oyo, by a lone goal to emerge champions of the tournament.
Highlights of the event were the decoration of dignitaries while individual awards, price monies were presented to Oladimeji FC, D’Way Up FC and Vipers FC for their accomplishments in the tournament.
Other notable personalities present at the final were Ilaji FC Sports Manager, Coach Babatunde Odubola, Coach FemBen from South Africa, Referee [Mogaji] Oladebo Joshua Oluseyi, management of Oyomesi FC and Rehoboth FC in Oyo as well as traditional rulers in Oyo town.