Meet Olagunju Damola Richway: A young philanthropist, football enthusiast making huge impact in Ede and beyond

 

Philanthropy comes in many forms, and it doesn't always require immense wealth to make a significant impact. Olagunju Damola, also known as Richway, is a shining example of a young philanthropist and businessman who is dedicated to giving back to his community and making a difference in the world of football. Hailing from Ede, Osun State, Damola has been actively involved in supporting football initiatives in his hometown, and he has grand plans to expand his contributions to the entire state of Osun.

As the owner of Richway Music in Ede, Damola is deeply committed to his community and actively engages in various charitable events to support football. One notable aspect of his involvement is sponsoring football competitions in Ede and local football clubs. He has previously sponsored a team named Athletico Madrid in Ede, and he has even initiated the process of establishing his very own football club called RICHWAY BOYZ Football Club of EDE. This endeavor is already underway, showcasing Damola's dedication to fostering local talent and providing opportunities for aspiring footballers in his community.

It's worth noting that the adoption of the name "Athletico Madrid" for the team Damola sponsored was part of a larger competition organized to promote supporters' clubs of various teams worldwide. The competition, known as the Ede Football Fans Competition, saw supporters of different clubs like Enyimba FC, Chelsea FC, Arsenal FC, and Remo Stars FC coming together. Damola's sponsorship of this competition highlights his commitment to uniting football enthusiasts and supporting the growth of the sport at the grassroots level.

In a recent interview, Damola expressed his pride in supporting the Osun State Football Association and his willingness to contribute to various events that the association requires sponsorship for. He understands the importance of investing in football infrastructure and development initiatives, particularly during these challenging times.

Looking ahead, Damola aims to be directly involved with football governing bodies in Osun State and Nigeria as a whole, driven by his unwavering love and passion for the game. His ambition extends beyond sponsorship and includes becoming a key figure in football administration in Ede, Osun State, and Nigeria at large. By actively engaging with football at different levels, Damola seeks to leave a lasting legacy and create positive change within the sport he holds dear.

In line with his vision, Damola has taken the initiative to organize and sponsor the RICHWAY U-14 Classic Tourney, a tournament exclusively powered by him. This event will provide young footballers with an opportunity to showcase their skills and passion for the game, further nurturing their growth and potential. Additionally, he plans to sponsor RICHWAY BOYZ FC EDE in the upcoming 17th Free Age Unique Egalitarian Soccer Championship, scheduled for the second week of August 2023.

Olagunju Damola Richway exemplifies the spirit of philanthropy and the transformative power of sports. Through his dedication to football and his community, he is making a positive impact on the lives of aspiring footballers in Ede and Osun State. His unwavering support and determination to contribute to the football landscape serve as an inspiration to others, reminding us all of the difference we can make when we combine passion, philanthropy, and a love for the beautiful game.

Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC emerge winners of Otunba Isiaka Adeleke Memorial Cup

 

Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC, was crowned the Champions of the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup, on Saturday evening, edging past Hammola Int'l FC 6-5 via penalties after a goalless 90 minutes of football. 

The match which was held at the Federal Polytechnic Ede Football Pitch had in attendance, the People's Democratic Party (PDP) 2018 Gubernatorial Candidate, Senator Nurudeen Ademola Adeleke, Osun PDP Chairman, Chief Sunday Bisi, Elder Peter Babalola, Chief Bayo Faforiji, Timi of Ede, Oba Minirudeen Lawal, and many other dignitaries. 

The final match witnessed a lot of interesting moments but  unlike the first edition played last year, this year's edition needed  penalty shootouts to decide the winners both in the third place game and the final match. In the third place game, New United FC, Ejigbo beat GFCC Ede-North, 5-4 on penalties following a 1-1 full time draw.

And in the final Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC, who came third last year, defeated Hammola Int'l FC, Ido-Osun FC 6-5 on penalties after a goalless match. Adekunle Shakiru of Hammola Int'l FC lost a couple of chances in the game to put his side ahead, while Lawal Taiwo of Eyiowuawi FC was also found guilty upfront. 

By winning this year's Edition, the Ede-South team ensured Ede town retained the trophy won last year by Adeleke Dynasty, a team also based in Ede. 

It was all joy for the sole sponsor, Hon. Bamidele Salam for hosting yet another successful competition in remembrance of the first executive governor of Osun State.

The House or Reps Member representing the good people of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency, stated that the late former Governor of Osun State, Senator Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke lived an exemplary life and thus deserves to be celebrated. The Lawyer cum Politician in his speech thanked everyone that made the competition a success, including all the dignitaries and every member of his Constituency that were present. 

Also speaking during the event, Senator Nurudeen Ademola 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 incoming Governor as he is fondly called also promised to adopt proactive programmes that would turn around the fortune of the state and lift thousands out of poverty if elected the Governor of the state in July this year. 

Medals and trophy were presented to the Winners (Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC) same was done for the second placed team, Hammola Int'l FC and the third placed team, New United FC, Ejigbo. 

For the individual awards, Adekunle Shakiru of Hammola Int'l FC was voted the Most Valuable Player of the tournament, while his teammate, Rahman Imran was voted the best Goalkeeper of the tournament. Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC Manager, Akin Oyedunmola got the accolade for the best Coach of the tournament, as Taofeeq Adeoye went home with the best defender Awards. 

Full list of winners.

Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC, Ede-South - Winners 

Hammola Int'l FC (1st runner-up)

New United FC, Ejigbo (2nd runner-up)

MVP - Adekunle Shakiru (Hammola Int'l FC)

Highest Goal Scorer- Ayo Olajuba (6 Goals)

Best Defender - Taofeeq Adeoye (Eyiowuawi FC)

Best Coach - Akin Oyedunmola (Eyiowuawi FC)

Best Goalkeeper - Rahman Imran (Hammola Int'l FC)

Fair play Award - GFCC FC.

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.

Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup: Eyiowuawi FC set up thrilling final with Hammola Int'l FC

The stage is now set for the final of this year's Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup, as Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC, Ede-South defeated GFCC Ede-North by 2-0 in the second Semi-Final played on Thursday, at the Ido-Osun High School, Ido-Osun.

Goals from Farooq Oyeniyi and Taiwo Lawal in the 65th and 77th minute ensured that the Ede-South based side got to their first ever final. 

Recall that the first Semi-Final played between Hammola Int'l FC and New Dawn FC on Wednesday also ended 2-0 in favour of the Ido-Osun side. 

The final of the tournament between Hammola Int'l FC and Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC will come up this Saturday, January 15th, which is a significant date, as it is the birthday of the late first executive Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke. 

 The Competition, which is dedicated in honour of the first Civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adeleke is solely sponsored by Rep. Bamidele Salam who represents the good people of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency of Osun State in the National Assembly.

The final of the Competition will be played at 3pm at the Federal Polytechnic Ede, Football Pitch.

Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup: Hammola Int'l FC cruise to final, as organisers present Jerseys to finalists

 

The final of the second edition of the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup is taking shape as Ido-Osun based side, Hammola Int'l FC booked one of the tickets after defeating New United FC of Ejigbo by two goals to nil on Wednesday evening at the Muslim High School Ede Football pitch. 

Two beautiful strike from Adekunle Shakiru and Abiodun Tiamiyu gave the Ido-Osun based side the win needed against a strong New United FC side. 

The 'Lee Bombers' showed class and dexterity right from the start of the game and left no one in doubt in their determination to pick one of the final tickets. 

The Egbedore flag bearers will now meet the winners of the Semi-Final clash between Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC (Ede South) and GFCC FC (Ede North) which will come up at the Ido-Osun High School, Ido-Osun on Thursday Evening.

Customary of the sponsor of the annual grassroot football fiesta, Representative Bamidele Salam, presented both Hamola FC Ido-Osun and New United FC Ejigbo with brand new football kits including a set of 20 pieces Footbal Jerseys with same number of Footbal Hose and a pair of Goalkeeper Glove each. 

The adoring football kits, being the first layer of prizes for outstanding teams in the tournament, are to be used by the teams in the final and the 3rd place playoffs on Saturday.

All roads now lead to Ido-Osun High School for the highly anticipated contest between the other two teams from the ancient city of Ede, who like their counterparts in the other two local governments, will have their match decided at a neutral ground at the Ido-Osun High School.

The Competition, which is dedicated in honour of the first Civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adeleke is solely sponsored by Rep. Bamidele Salam who represents the good people of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency of Osun State in the National Assembly.

The final of the Competition will come up on the 15th of January 2022 in Ede.

Babatunde Eyiowuawi stroll to Otunba Isiaka Adeleke Memorial Cup Semi-Final

Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC of Ede on Monday cruised past Molababs FC in the first Quarter-Final of the ongoing Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup. 

Eyiowuawi FC who were last year's second runners up dominated in most part of the game and deservedly earned a 2-1 victory over their opponent. 

The Ede-South based side created alot of goalscoring chances and before the hour mark scored the first goal of the game, scoring one more later in the game to become the first side to book a spot in the Semi-Final of the prestigious football tournament held in honour of the first Civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke. 

Molababs FC made a flurry of changes mid way in an attempt to turn the tables with an equalizer, but were unable to breach the Eyiowuawi FC defence. 

With this result, Babatunde Eyiowuawi FC will now face the winner of the second quarter final game between GFCC Ede North and Unity FC, which will come up today at the Muslim Grammar School Ede. 

The third quarter final match between Unity FC, Ejigbo and New United FC will come up at the Baptist High School Ejigbo on Thursday, the 6th of January. 

Meanwhile, the date and time for the fourth quarter final game between Hammola FC Ido-Osun and New Dawn FC, Ofatedo will be communicated soon. 

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 of Osun State in the National Assembly. 

The final of the Competition will come up on the 15th of January 2022 in Ede.

Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup zooms to quarterfinals

 

The Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup is heading into the business end, with four teams already through to the quarter-finals.

Hammola FC of Ido-Osun ended as group winners in the Egbedore centre. Hammola FC won two of their games, drawing just one, while New Dawn FC, Ofatedo came second with five (5) points. 

In Ede North, GFCC Ede and Unity FC ended as group winners and runners up respectively. GFCC Ede North, had a great run in the Competition going past Victory Football Academy and Adegbite FC to book an automatic slot in the quarter finals. 

In the Ejigbo Centre, the final group matches will be played this week, Ifesowapo FC (Isoko) will battle Temidire FC (Ilawo) on Thursday, 30th of December, while Unity FC (Ejigbo) and Temidire FC (Ilawo) will play their last group games on friday, 31st of December. 

In Ede South, Last year's second runner up, Eyiowuawi FC defeated their opponent Molababs FC 1-0 and look to be in a comfortable place to book a  Quarter-Final spot. 

Coordinator of the Competition Oladele Bamiji said he is satisfied with the way the Competition has been going so far. Bamiji also hailed and described  Hon. Bamidele Salam, who is the sole sponsor of the Competition as a man who has great intention and love for his people.

"We are glad and satisfied with the way the competition has been going so far, it is a clear indication that Sports is a major component that brings the old, young and everyone together.

 "People from all four centres have trooped out en masse to give the Otunba Isiaka Adetunji Adeleke Memorial Cup a major boost and we are happy about that. Last year we witnessed massive support from everyone in our Constituency and this year, the support is even more. 

"Specifically, Rep Bamidele Salam have done alot in all areas, and coming out again for the second time to give the youths a platform through Sports, shows that he has his people dear to his heart."

The Competition, which is dedicated in honour of the first Civilian Governor of Osun State, Otunba Isiaka Adeleke is solely sponsored by Rep. Bamidele Salam who represents the good people of Ede North, Ede South, Egbedore and Ejigbo Federal Constituency of Osun State in the National Assembly.

The final of the Competition will come up on the 15th of January 2022 in Ede.

Osun Apex League: Olansile, Akoment, Fehinty FC show class As NSCDC, Ayedire, Hadji Hammed FC yet to taste victory

It was a big win for Olansile FC who roasted pointless Hadji Hammed FC (5-0) in week 3 of the Osun Apex League. Olaoluwa Pelumi registered the first hat trick in the league to push Omo Mummy Boys to second spot in Group B. 

Fehinty FC also shines as Ido Osun based side walloped AUD All Stars 2-0 in their fortress. Odugbemi Naheem maintained his scoring instinct as his well fascinating opener sent Fehinty FC to top on the log. David O. later increased the tally towards the death.

Ayedire Utd took fight to Orolu as the encounter ended goalless, same way H. M K. and Hammola shared spoils. Qudus opened scoring for H. M. K FC in the first half while Hammola's bulky striker Abbas secured away point for his side at the death in the evening when nature spoke aggressively thereby making Hammola FC to maintain its undefeated status. 

Hammola FC continues to dominate Group A while Victory Police bounced back and occupy second on the log. Os NSCDC and Hadji Hammed are without a point so far. Azeez (HMK FC), Akande Ibraheem ( Olansile FC) and Olaoluwa Pelumi (Olansile FC) are leading the scorers sheet with 3 goals each. 

The top two teams in each group would eventually qualify for Super 4 to determine the actual league winner.

Osun Apex League is packaged and financed by Osun FA under the distinguished sports financier Alhaji Rasaq lshola Mustapha RIM. The Grand Prize of 120, 000 and 100, 000 have been earmarked for the eventual winner and runner’s up. There are countless exciting gifts also for participating teams and individual awards are also in the offing.

Week 4 Fixtures 

Group A

Sat. 2nd October 2021

Otin Babes Vs Akoment 3pm. ( Otin Grams Okuku) 

Sun. 3rd Oct. 2021

Hammola FC Vs Os NSCDC 11am (Osogbo Stadium)

Victory Police Vs H. M. K FC 1pm (Osogbo Stadium) 

Group B

Sat. 2nd October 2021

Ayedire Utd Vs Fehinty FC 3pm ( C H/S Ileogbo)

Hadji Hammed Vs Orolu  LG 3pm (S. O H/S Owode) 

Sun. 3rd Oct. 2021

AUD All Stars Vs Timi Giants FC 3pm (Osogbo Stadium) 

Olansile FC... Bye