…As Competition kicks off in October

The Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council, Hon. Oladimeji Abimbola, has expressed his readiness to support the fourth edition of the Adu Unity Football Competition.

Abimbola stated this while receiving members of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) of the Adu Unity Football Competition in his office in Akure, the state capital.

“We started the maiden edition together and, since then, I have been supportive of the competition,” he said.
He commended the sponsor of the competition, Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu, popularly known as Cubana, for his consistency in promoting grassroots football.

Abimbola added that sports, particularly football, remain among the best tools for keeping young people away from social vices.

“On behalf of the Ondo State Sports Council, I assure the Local Organising Committee of the Adu Unity Football Competition of our support. We are going to support the successful organisation of the competition,” he said.
He advised the organisers to expand the competition across all 18 local government areas of the state.

According to him, Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu has expanded the competition beyond the Ondo Central Senatorial District, making it necessary for all 18 local government areas to be represented.

Earlier, the Chairman of the Local Organising Committee, Raymond Abdulsalam, thanked Abimbola for receiving the committee and congratulated him on his appointment as Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council.

“This is our fourth year of coming here to seek the support of the council. Three General Managers have hosted us, and now that we have you as the Chairman, we have no doubt in our minds that this year’s edition will be successful.

“You are one of us, and you have shown this through the warm reception you have given us,” Abdulsalam said.

According to him, this year’s competition will be the fourth edition and has been consistently sponsored by Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu (Cubana).

“Our plan is to make this year’s competition an improved edition of the previous three editions by ensuring that all 18 local government areas participate,” he said.

Abdulsalam noted that sports development should not be left to the government alone, stressing the importance of private-sector involvement in identifying and nurturing talents at the grassroots.

“We cannot leave sports development at the doorstep of the government alone.

That is why Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu (Cubana) is joining hands with the government to discover the hidden talents that abound at the grassroots,” he said.

The highlight of the event was the unveiling of the Chairman’s portrait in his office.

ONDO CITY

The Osemawe of Ondo Kingdom, Oba (Dr.) Victor Adesimbo Kiladejo, Jilo III, will today grace the grand finale of the End Miscreants Football Competition, Ondo 2026, in a move expected to further strengthen the campaign for peace, unity and positive youth development in the kingdom.

The final, scheduled for 9:00 a.m., will feature a decisive clash between Loro FC and Okelisa FC, as the two teams battle for the championship trophy.

The monarch is expected to join philanthropists, kingdom leaders, dignitaries and sons and daughters of Ondo Kingdom from within Nigeria and the diaspora at the historic occasion.

His participation in the event is seen as a show of support for initiatives that engage youths positively and promote peaceful coexistence within the kingdom.

The competition, which has attracted attention across Ondo, is being used as a platform to encourage young people to channel their energy into productive activities while discouraging miscreancy and other social vices.

The organisers said the grand finale would go beyond the football contest, describing it as a celebration of unity, community spirit and the collective determination to build a peaceful and progressive Ondo Kingdom.

They called on residents and football enthusiasts to come out and witness the final as Loro FC and Okelisa FC compete for the ultimate prize.

The organisers reiterated the message behind the competition: “One Game, One Champion, One Community.”

They urged all participants and supporters to play fair, stay united and join the campaign to End Miscreants.

Sports Ambassadors in Ondo South have congratulated Coach Dimeji Abimbola on his appointment as Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Council.

The congratulatory message, signed by the Convener of the group, Ibukunoluwa Obateru, described Abimbola’s appointment as a recognition of his years of commitment and contributions to sports development in Ondo State, particularly at the grassroots.

Obateru noted that Abimbola, who is also Chairman of the Odigbo Local Government Football Council and Vice Chairman of the Ondo State Football Association, had demonstrated passion for football development, talent discovery and grassroots sports promotion.

According to him, Abimbola’s efforts have helped create opportunities for young and emerging talents to showcase their abilities and pursue careers in sports.

The group expressed confidence that the new chairman’s experience, administrative capacity and passion for sports would bring renewed energy and purposeful direction to the Ondo State Sports Council.

It, however, urged Abimbola to give greater attention to sports development across the state, particularly in Ondo South, where it said many talented athletes and footballers required adequate support, sporting facilities, competitions, exposure and opportunities.

The Sports Ambassadors also called for stronger grassroots sports programmes, improved talent identification and youth development, better sporting facilities and the creation of sustainable pathways for athletes across the state.

The group wished Abimbola wisdom, strength, sound health and a successful tenure, expressing optimism that his leadership would leave a lasting positive impact on the sporting landscape of Ondo State.

Ondo State Sports Council FC defeated FC JogboJogbo 1–0 to emerge champions of the Pa Samuel Ilesanmi 90th Birthday Sports and Football Tournament held at the Anglican Grammar School Field, Ijare.

In the third-place play-off, Mawotan FC defeated Mosinmiloluwa FC 2–1 to secure the bronze medal.

Four teams including; FC JogboJogbo, Ondo State Sports Council FC, Mosinmiloluwa FC and Mawotan FC – competed in the knockout tournament.

Ondo State Sports Council FC booked their place in the final with a 2–1 victory over Mawotan FC in the semi-finals, while FC JogboJogbo thrashed Mosinmiloluwa FC 4–1 to qualify for the final before finishing as runners-up.

The football tournament, Ayo Olopon, draught, egg race and other sporting competitions formed part of the week-long activities organised to celebrate the 90th birthday of Pa Samuel Ilesanmi.

Other activities marking the celebration included a spiritual counselling session, children’s and grandchildren’s games, poems, stories and shared memories, an Asun Night with entertainment, a grand finale at BTO Hall, Akure, and a thanksgiving service on Sunday.

In the Ayo Olopon competition, Oyewole Igbekele emerged winner, while Oluwafemi Sunday and Oladimeji Tope finished in second and third positions respectively.

Samson Adejumo came first in the challenge game, with Makinde Esther and Sani Bosede taking second and third places respectively.

In the egg race, Oluwarina Olamiposi claimed first position, followed by Awoleye Korede in second place, while Ariyo Oluwatoyin finished third.

The nonagenarian, Pa Samuel Ilesanmi, expressed joy and appreciation, offering prayers for his children, family members, friends, organisers and spectators who attended the sporting event.

Pa Samuel Ilesanmi is the founder of Celestial Church of Christ, Ona Ara Blessed Cathedral, Ijare, popularly known as Cele JogboJogbo.

A major highlight of the event was the presentation of a Super Eagles jersey to the celebrant by his admirers.

The Pa Samuel Ilesanmi 90th Birthday Sports and Football Tournament was sponsored by Dammybib Mortgage Brokers UK, Ubusting Nig. Ltd., Akure, Riktoy Oil & Gas, Akure, JSP Communication, Akure, and Tapson Aluminium, Ado.

The event was organised by a committee chaired by the Life President of Celestial Church of Christ, Ona Ara Blessed Cathedral, Ijare, retired Captain Isaac Ibitoye Ilesanmi.

The committee’s co-chairman was former Special Adviser to former Ondo State Governor, Dr Segun Mimiko, Hon. Akinsola Akinbobola, while Mr David Ilesanmi served as secretary.

Other members of the organising committee included the Chairman of the Ondo State Sports Writers Association, Segun Giwa; the Chairman of Ondo State Sports Council Coaches, Joshua Ogunbiyi; the proprietor of Royal Goldwin Academy, Johnson Perez; and other professionals.

Akure-born coach Nike Ayeni has praised the Ondo State Football Agency for its support after guiding Sunshine Stars U19 to a historic Federation Cup campaign that has captured attention across Nigerian football.

Ayeni, regarded as the only female coach currently managing a male football side in Ondo State, steered the youth team to its first state FA Cup success and qualification for the national Federation Cup Round of 64.

Sunshine Stars U19 defeated Akure North United FC 1-0 to secure the state title before overcoming Adamimigo FC on penalties following a 1-1 draw.

The side then booked a place in the national competition with a convincing 3-1 play-off victory over Harmony FC.

The team is now set for a high-profile Round of 64 clash against Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes FC.

Speaking after the latest victory, Ayeni described the achievement as the product of discipline, preparation and collective belief.

“This victory is not just about today; it is about the hard work these boys have put in from day one,” she said.

“We respected our opponent, but we believed in our structure, our strategy and our strength. The players executed the game plan perfectly.”

Ayeni also paid tribute to Ondo State Football Agency chairman Divine Ogbonaya and the agency’s board for what she described as their unwavering support throughout the campaign.

“I want to sincerely thank the chairman, Divine Ogbonaya and the board for their consistent support and encouragement,” she added.

“Their belief in this team, timely support and commitment to football development in Ondo State have motivated the players immensely. We are determined to repay that trust with the league and FA trophy.”

Under Ayeni’s leadership, Sunshine Stars U19 remain unbeaten in the competition and have also qualified for the Super 8 qualifiers.

“We qualified for the Round of 64 without losing a match and that tells you about the mentality of this team,” she said.

“From the draw against Akure North United to the wins over Adamimigo FC and Harmony FC, the boys have shown character.

But the job is not finished. We are focused on lifting the trophy.”

Ayeni, a CAF Licence C coach and NIS-certified tactician, previously served as assistant coach of Sunshine Queens FC, helping the club qualify for the Nigeria Women Football Premier League.

A former player and captain before moving into coaching, she said her experience at different levels of the game had helped shape a disciplined and tactically organised U19 side.

“Experience matters in tournaments like this. I have been privileged to work at different levels, and all those experiences prepared me for this moment,” she said.

“I believe in developing players mentally and physically and you can see the result on the pitch.”

The coach also highlighted unity within the squad as a key factor behind the team’s impressive run.

“This is a team built on trust. Every player understands his role.

We attack together and defend together,” she said.

Despite the growing attention surrounding the team’s achievements, Ayeni insisted her players would remain focused ahead of their next challenge in the 2026 Federation Cup.

“Our focus is clear. We respect whoever we meet in all our matches, but we believe in ourselves,” she said

.
“By God’s grace, we will give Ondo State something to celebrate.”

The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.

The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.

Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.

He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.

According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.

“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.

“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”

The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.

“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.

“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”

He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.

“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”

Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.

The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.

The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.

The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.

Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.

He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.

According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.

“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.

“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”

The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.

“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.

“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”

He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.

“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”

Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.

The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.

The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.

The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.

Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.

He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.

According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.

“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.

“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”

The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.

“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.

“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”

He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.

“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”

Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.

The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.

Sunshine Stars Chief Scout, Shina Adeoye, has resigned from his position with immediate effect.

Adeoye, a former player of the club, cited pressing personal and professional commitments as the reason for stepping aside from his role as Chief Scouting Officer.

In his resignation letter, he formally notified the club’s management of his decision:

“I write to formally notify the management of my decision to step aside from my position as Chief Scout of Sunshine Stars Football Club, Akure.

“This decision has become necessary in order to attend to some pressing personal and professional commitments relating to my football career, which may not allow me to effectively discharge my duties in this role.

“As a former player and a staunch supporter of the Owena Whales, the club remains very dear to my heart, and I will continue to support its growth and success at all times.

“I also wish to inform the public and the media that, with immediate effect and until further notice, I am stepping aside from my role with the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA).
Please accept my gratitude for the opportunity to serve.”

Yours sincerely,
Shina Adeoye

Former Sunshine Stars Player.”

Adeoye’s departure marks the end of his tenure in the club’s technical setup, where he played a key role in scouting and player development.