Ifelodun Local Governement football team have emerged champions of the 4th edition of Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup.
The young football stars emerged victorious after beating the Ilesha West football team 7-6 after a penalty shootout at cup’s final game held in Osogbo Township Stadium on Monday
The full time game had ended in a draw with 1 goal on both sides.
The memorial cup, which was hosted by Member Representing Ede Central, Ede North, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituencies, Bamidele Salam, has always been held in honour of the first elected governor of Osun State, late Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke, who is remembered for his developmental efforts in the state.
Speaking to newsmen, Governor Ademola Adeleke, who performed the ceremonial kick-off for the final game, appreciated Salam for his consistent efforts in holding the competition through the years.
Governor Adeleke thanked the Organiser of the annual Football Competition, Hon. Bamidele Salam, for deeming it fit to honour the memory of his late brother, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke. The Governor fondly called ‘Imole’ also promised to adopt proactive measures, to ensure the Osogbo City Stadium receive a well-deserved facelift soon.
He also hinted at an assurance that the township stadium was going to witness more of such development-oriented sporting activities upon completion of renovations being made.
He stated that the stadium is expected to not only host football games, but all other varsity games such as basketball, swimming, table tennis, lawn tennis and much more.
In his own address to newsmen, Rep. Salam said the competition was geared towards harnessing the potential of the youth, and exposing their talents to the global market.
He said, “Since we started this competition 5 years ago, we have a lot of players that have been hired by scouts. They have been given the opportunity to play at higher levels.
“That is the whole essence of organising such kind of competition apart from building a culture of healthy competition amongst our youths from all local governments in Osun state.”
He added that focusing on building the youth of the nation, through sporting activities and other endeavours will contribute to the overall development of the nation.
The winners of the competition returned home with a total sum of 1million naira.
Ilesa West emerged as the first runners-up while Olorunda came third.
The contest started in December with 32 teams across all local government areas.
The Competition which is dedicated in honour of the first Civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke is solely sponsored by Rep Bamidele Salam, who represents the good people of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency in the National Assembly
