Philanthropist Donates Reserve Bench To Osogbo Stadium
A philanthropist, Ibikunle Ibidapo, has donated a pair of reserve benches to the Osun State Football Association, for usage at Osogbo Township Stadium.
Speaking at a brief ceremony during the unveiling of the benches, Ibidapo stated that the gesture was due to his passion for the development of the round leather game at the grassroots.
Ibidapo, who sponsored the Ibikunle Ibidapo Football Competition organised by the Olorunda Local Government Football Coaches Association, urged well-meaning individuals in the society to contribute their quota to the uplift of hidden talents through sports.
He said: “My decision to do this is borne out of my love for sports, especially football. I love to see talents grow into superstars. That is why I encourage and motivate them. I watched almost all the NLO matches and I saw most of the players on the bench, sitting in the sun. I felt it was necessary to provide a suitable bench that would reduce what the players and their team officials go through.
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“I am glad and happy to see this dream come true. I aim to see the development of football in Osun, and make our state, be the best among its peers in Nigeria, in sports. I am glad that the people are inspired by my actions. I want privileged people in the society to join hands with me and assist in uncovering talents for the state and the country at large.”
Responding on behalf of the Osun FA, the Chairman, Hon. Sola Fanawopo, appreciated Ibidapo for the gesture.
Fanawopo noted that the association is ready to partner with and receive support from individuals and organisations who are ready to facilitate projects and programmes to grow football in the state.
The F.A. Chair said: “We can’t keep waiting for government endlessly, people with wherewithal are always welcome to play their part as we focus on developing talents in the state. One of the components missing in the arena is here.”
The event also witnessed the presentation of medals and gifts to the four best teams at the Ibikunle Ibidapo Football Competition.
Sodiq Yusuf is a trained media practitioner and journalist with considerable years of experience in print, broadcast, and digital journalism. His interests cover a wide range of causes in politics, governance, sports, community development, and good governance.
