Oyo State Football Association Oyo FA Chairman, His Royal Majesty Oba James Odeniran, praised the spirit of fair play demonstrated during the recently concluded state play off, which saw Iwalewa Football Academy of Saki secure a spot in Nationwide League 2. Iwalewa FA triumphed over Sult De King of Ibadan in a closely contested 3-2 aggregate victory. The decisive second leg occurred at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, following an exciting 2-2 draw in the first leg at Irewole Stadium, Saki.
Oba Odeniran, a former FIFA referee and match commissioner, commended both teams for their outstanding performances and adherence to fair competition principles. He emphasized the importance of transparent officiating and ensuring a level playing field, which he believes is critical to the growth of football in Oyo State. Oba Odeniran congratulated Iwalewa FA on their determination and hard work, which earned them promotion, reiterating the Oyo FA’s commitment to unbiased competition management.
Stakeholders and fans praised the Oyo FA’s leadership for their professionalism and support of grassroots football, attributing the rise of private clubs and the improvement in football standards across the state to the association’s transparent processes.
Editorial
The success of Iwalewa Football Academy’s promotion to Nationwide League 2, achieved under the watchful eye of Oyo FA Chairman Oba James Odeniran, is a shining example of what can be accomplished when fair play and transparency are prioritized. We commend the leadership of the Oyo FA for fostering an environment where teams can compete on merit, free from bias, and where grassroots football continues to flourish.
Football is more than just a game it is a powerful vehicle for development and unity. In Oyo State, the principles of fair play and professionalism championed by Oba Odeniran have set the stage for football’s steady rise. As supporters, we recognise that building a thriving football community starts from the grassroots, and the commitment shown by the Oyo FA to ensuring fair competition is laying a strong foundation for future success.
We believe that the success of Iwalewa FA is just the beginning. With continued support for grassroots football and a transparent approach to competition management, Oyo State could soon become a hub for football excellence in Nigeria.
Did You Know?
- Oyo State is home to some of Nigeria’s oldest and most successful football clubs, including Shooting Stars.
- The Nationwide League 2 is the third tier of Nigerian football, with promotion offering pathways to higher levels of competition.
- Oba James Odeniran served as a FIFA referee before becoming the Chairman of the Oyo FA.
- Grassroots football in Nigeria has produced notable talents like Kelechi Iheanacho and Wilfred Ndidi.
- The Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan has hosted numerous high-profile football matches in Nigerian football history.
