The convener of the 7-Aside Artisan Football Competition, Hon. Tokunbo Adewale Toriola, who is the CEO of Folawale Services Consult, has expressed his words of appreciation to the various associations in Ibarapa Central that participated in the second edition of the 7-Aside Artisan Football Competition. 

Tokunbo, popularly known as Toks, who was a House of Assembly aspirant in the 2023 general elections, expressed his gratitude to the coordinators of the Unity Cup as well as other individuals who committed themselves to the success of the football competition. 

The highly anticipated match was held at the Oyo State School of Science playing ground in Idere on Saturday, March 9, 2024, where traders and artisans from Ibarapa Central Local Government Area converged to watch the final of the football match put together to enhance their physical fitness. 

In his words of appreciation on Monday, March 11, 2024, Toriola said the presence of the Onidere of Idere, HRM, Oba Onikola Oyelami Olufiji II, the Asingangan of Igangan Land, HRM, Oba Rafiu Adeniyi Ariwoola, as well as political functionaries, including the lawmaker representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North Federal Constituency, Hon. (Dr.) Anthony Adebayo Adepoju, Hon. Ademola Obafemi Ojo, Commissioner for Trade, Industry, Investment and Cooperatives, representative of the Commissioner for Youth and Sports in Oyo State and Special Adviser to Governor Seyi Makinde, added glamour to the grand finale of the football competition.

The industrialist cum politician said there is nothing that unites people more than football, emphasising the need to invest in sports activities in the region in order to achieve cohesion and unity, which, according to him, is one of the aims of the football competition. 

Tokunbo promised to continue to invest resources in the initiative, appreciating the community for the level of cooperation displayed during the tournament.

Expressing his gratitude further, Tokunbo emphasized that the presence of the Abuja-based lawmaker representing Ibarapa Central and Ibarapa North, Hon. (Dr.) Anthony Adebayo Adepoju and that of Hon. Ademola Obafemi Ojo, among others, added great prestige to the event, saying the gesture is a testament to the accessible representation of the present political office holders in the federal constituency. 

He however congratulated the association that won the competition, coaches of different associations, officials for good officiating, security personnel such as Operation Burst, Amotekun and others.

The vibrant atmosphere of sportsmanship filled the air as the second edition of the 7-Aside Artisan Football Competition commenced in the heart of Ibarapa Central Local Government Area of Oyo State. Organized annually among artisans and traders, this year’s tournament promises a great display of talent and passion for football.

Under the stewardship of the esteemed convener, Honourable Tokunbo Toriola, fondly known as Toks, the competition aims to foster unity and promote grassroots football development within the local community. With the enthusiastic support of participants and spectators alike, the event has quickly become a highlight on the local sports calendar.

Yesterday marked the thrilling inauguration of the tournament at the football field of the Oyo State School of Science, situated in Idere town. The honour of kickstarting the festivities was bestowed upon Honorable Akinlolu Olugbade, adding prestige and momentum to the occasion.

The opening match between Asejere Furniture and Quarry FC captured the essence of competitive spirit and resilience. After a fiercely contested battle, spectators were treated to a nail-biting penalty shootout, culminating in a hard-earned victory for Asejere Furniture, who emerged triumphant with a final score of 4 goals to 3 against Quarry FC.

As the excitement continues to build, today, on the 27th of February, the action intensifies with two exhilarating matches scheduled. The first clash features Ifesowapo FC from Igboora town facing off against Selmon FC, promising an afternoon of thrilling football dynamics. This showdown kicks off at 2:00 PM on the hallowed grounds of the Oyo State School of Science, Idere.

Later in the day, at 4:00 PM, the spotlight shifts to another captivating encounter between Butchers FC and Taylors FC. Anticipation runs high as both teams prepare to showcase their skills and determination on the field of play.

With each match poised to deliver its own brand of excitement and drama, the second edition of the 7-Aside Artisan Football Competition stands as a testament to the enduring passion for football within the Ibarapa Central community. As the tournament unfolds, all eyes will be on the players as they all contest to win Unity Cup, in the spirit of unity and sportsmanship.

BY ASOLO DANIEL

The Ayete Inter Quarters Football Competition hosted by Federation of Ayete Students’ Union (FASU) came to an end today as Ikogba lifts the trophy for the first time.

After the student union activities hiatus in Ayete, a new administration tagged “Era of Revival” led by Comrade Saheed Olaosun came to reignite and awake the spirit of unionism, and this has led to the success of this football competition.

The competition as organized by FASU Sport Director, Comrade Adefemi Muhammed, started on the 11th of September with 10 teams as participants in Ayete Grammar School Playing Ground. In the knockout stage, only 4 teams: Odo-ode, Ikogba, Oke-Isawo and Iwafin emerges victorious.

In the semifinals, Oke-Isawo defeated Odo-ode via penalty and Ikogba defeated Iwafin via penalty also after a goalless draw. The results eventually were 3-2 and 3-1 respectively.

The final began by 5pm, Ikogba defeated her opponent 1 goal to nil after a breathtaking match. The goal from Hamzat Roqeeb was enough to seal the victory. This happened to be a match where both teams were favourites for the trophy.

On the same pitch, Odo-ode cruised gleefully against Iwafin to emerge as the team going home with the bronze medal.

Hon Oladimeji Jamiu- Supervisor for Youths and Sports Ibarapa North local government was in attendance, Mr. Ojeyemi Kabiru presented the medals while Jinmoh Toibat was in attendance to present the trophy to the winning team.