FUBF donates soccer balls to 18 schools in Osun State

 

Family United By Football (FUBF) is a Sports Group on social media (WhatsApp) platform, and one poised for radical change in our sports, especially FOOTBALL and management in Osun State has donated soccer balls to 18 schools in Osun State.

Following the celebration of its 2024 FUBF Day, the vibrant sports advocacy group took a significant step to inspire other well-meaning individuals to support FUBF's longstanding commitment to grassroots football development.

The donation event held at the Osogbo Township Stadium was attended by several key stakeholders in Osun Sports, which includes the Senior Special Adviser to the Osun State Governor on Football Matters, Kehinde Johnson, General Manager Osun Sports Council, Rotimi Dunmoye, Director of Coaching and Training at the Osun Sports Council, Ademola Daini, Chairman Osun Players Union and Assistant Coach Osun United, Olapade Waheed, and other FUBF members. 

During the presentation of the soccer balls to randomly selected schools, FUBF founder Tunde Shamsudeen, a renowned sports journalist, football administrator, and Chairman FUBF Organizing Committee, Alhaji Olayiwola Olafiranye stated:

"We believe football has the power to unite everyone, awaken the self-worth of countless football talents in our schools, empower big dreams, and provide aspiring athletes with a reason to pursue a career in the beautiful game. 

"This initiative is part of FUBF's Community Social Responsibility (CSR) aimed at developing the physical and mental well-being of our youth while also serving as a platform for them to showcase their football skills. 

"Many students cannot afford quality soccer balls; at FUBF, we aim to change that narrative by providing these resources for our secondary school talents to play or train with during their long breaks and after school.

"We distributed a total of 51 soccer balls to 18 secondary schools in Osun State."

Kehinde Johnson praised FUBF’s initiative, noting that while the state government had planned a similar program, FUBF was the first to execute such a donation. He added that this action aligns perfectly with the state government’s plans to hold school competitions like the Principal’s Cup and Headmaster’s Cup next year.

Sunday Adeloye from Methodist High School, Ilesha, speaking on behalf of the Games Masters, expressed his gratitude: "We are very surprised with this kind of programme, because this is the first of its kind,” he said. 

“We’re planning on holding a football competition, and we’ve been looking for money to buy balls, but now the group has given us balls freely.” 

He assured FUBF that the footballs would be put to good use and appealed to the Osun State Sports Council to support outstanding student-athletes. 

The recipient schools are as follows: Fakunle Comprehensive High School (Osogbo), Olufi High School (Gbongan), Methodist High School (Ilesa), Ilesa Grammar School (Ilesa), Ibokun Grammar School (Ibokun), ADC Grammar School (Apomu), and St. Charles Grammar School (Osogbo). 

Additional schools include ADS Grammar School (Ifon), B.S. Grammar School (Ola-Ejigbo), Akinorun Grammar School (Ikirun), Inisa Grammar School (Inisa), Olofa Grammar School (Ofatedo), AUD Grammar School (Iwo), Anglican High School (Edunabon), St. Paul Grammar School (Ilobu), Muslim High School (Modakeke), Ido Osun High School, and Modupeolu Model School, Owode-Ede.

FUBF felicitates with Oliseh, FC Ebedei on Onuachu's FIFA award nomination

 

Barrister Churchill Oliseh and his club, FC Ebedei one of Nigeria's premier professionally-run football academies have received commendations from Family United By Football (FUBF) following the nomination of Super Eagles forward Ebere Paul Onuachu MON for the FIFA Puskás Award, which honors the year's best goal.

Last week, FIFA released a video showcasing the goals of all the nominees for the 2024 Puskás Award, and among them was the talented player from FC Ebedei.

Onuachu's remarkable acrobatic backheel finish during a match against Konyaspor last season, which contributed to Trabzonspor's 2-1 victory in the Turkish Super Lig, has made it to the list of 11 stunning goals competing for the prestigious prize.

FUBF, a vibrant sports advocacy group on WhatsApp, expressed their accolades while highlighting Barrister Oliseh and FC Ebedei's contributions to grassroots football development in Nigeria and beyond.

FC Ebedei is notable not only for being the only football academy and team in Nigeria to have three of its graduates—Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika—selected for the Super Eagles' silver-winning squad in the recent AFCON held in Ivory Coast, but also for being the first club in sub-Saharan Africa to have a player nominated for this FIFA accolade named after the legendary Hungarian striker Ferenc Puskás, celebrated for his remarkable individual goals.

As one of Africa's most respected football teams, FC Ebedei consistently produces top-quality players and stands out as one of Nigeria's best-managed football academies.

Through FC Ebedei, Barrister Churchill Oliseh has been instrumental in the careers of five Members of the Order of the Niger (MON): Sunday Oliseh, Dosu Joseph, Paul Onuachu, Frank Onyeka, and Raphael Onyedika.

Barrister Oliseh’s success stories with Nigerian players are extensive, including his pivotal roles in the careers of Super Eagles legends Dosu Joseph and Sunday Oliseh. He provided the career pathway for Sunday Oliseh when he signed him to his first football team, JAMB FC, and helped Dosu transition to Europe from Julius Berger.

Before the 1996 Atalanta Olympics, Barrister Oliseh arranged for Dosu to join the Dream Team by purchasing a flight ticket from Italy, a cost he covered, which remains unpaid to this day.

Beyond Limits' Olumide hails Optima Energy Gold Cup organizers with SofaScore innovation

 

The idea of the organizers of 2024 Optima Energy Gold Cup to have their games stream on popular SofaScore Application has been commended by the Head Coach of Beyond Limits, Ajibolade Olumide. 

Recall before the kickoff, Optima Energy Gold Cup has announced SofaScore as its official technical partner. 

Sofascore, owned and developed by Croatia based tech company SofaIT, will in the next three years, starting from 12th edition to collect and analyse match data to the millions of global users of the Sofascore app, of teams and players taking part in the nation's sought-after off-season football tournament. 

"I think the positive of the 12th edition is the fact that games were now live on the SofaScore app," Olumide said. 

"I have not been around since the tournament started, but I was able to follow the games in detail. 

"Even before the tourney started, the schedule was already up on the app, which was really freshing to see, so it's a positive development. 

"However, the football is still the same, the quality is there so we appreciate the fact that quality teams still grace the tournament and hopefully in subsequent seasons, we keep having proper teams and we keep having a good tournament."

Beyond Limits, who became the second team to make a back-to-back final, will battle Shooting Stars for the off season's biggest accolade on Saturday at the Remo Stars International Stadium, with 3pm as kick-off time.

Olafiranye Sports Foundation reactivates partnership with Optima Energy Gold Cup

 

The Most Valuable Player (MVP), Top Scorer, Best Refeere likewise the Best Behaved Player from the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup will take home befitting awards courtesy the Olafiranye Sports Foundation. 

President of the Sports Foundation, Alhaji Olafiranye Olayiwola made this known to the Media Channel of the nation's prestigious pre-season tourney after the Osogbo, Osun State based organization renewed it's partnership with the Optima Energy Gold Cup.

The Remo Stars International Stadium, Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium in Apele-Sagamu are hosting the annual event which has reached Matchday 3, with defending champions Beyond Limits being the first team to reach the semi-finals with a match left, after respectively recording a 3-0 and 1-0 win against Association Sportive de la Vallée de l'Ouémé (ASVO) FC and Kasam FA of Ilorin.

Olafiranye, a philanthropist, said: "Rewarding exceptional behavioral qualities, promoting positive attitudes and moral standards among our growing youths is part of our core values as a sports foundation. 

"Just as we did in the last edition, we will be rewarding the Best Behaved player, best referee, and Best Behaved team of the Optima Energy Gold Cup.

"The essence is to show support to these individuals and teams, as fans from diverse backgrounds who are passionate about the game can learn from the positive attitudes displayed by them during matches.

"Their exceptional behavioural qualities can be a tool for change as these players are role models, and their good display on the pitch sends positive messages to thousands of fans, regardless of the age bracket, watching the matches live or live streaming them online on their devices."

The grand finale of the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup will take center stage at the Remo Stars International Stadium, Ikenne, on Saturday, August 24, 2024.

Itel seals partnership with Optima Energy Gold Cup

 

Leading consumer electronics brand, itel, has partnered with the 12th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament with the Player of the Match award. 

Defending champions, Beyond Limits, will battle nine other football clubs drawn for the Nigeria three-tiers division leagues- Nigeria Premier Football League, Nigeria National League, Nationwide League One and a visiting team from West Africa. 

The Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu will host the sought-after pre-season tourney from Thursday, August 15th to Saturday 24th, 2024.

itel’s ATL Marketing Manager, Omachona Eguda, has this to say; ‘As we honor the exceptional talents on the field with the Player of the Match awards, we are reminded of the power of determination and passion that drives both our brand and these remarkable athletes. Together, we are elevating the spirit of sportsmanship and community across Nigeria."

Tunde Shamsudeen to the tourney's Media Channel: "We're delighted to have itel, global leading smart life brand committed to providing affordable and good quality consumer electronic products onboard as one of our partners. 

"They will be supporting the Optimal Energy Gold Cup with Player of the Match awards and with itel limited edition gifts.”

Optima Energy Gold Cup announce SofaScore as Technical Partner

The Optima Energy Gold Cup has announced SofaScore as its official technical partner for its pre-season football tournament for the next three (3) years.

Sofascore, owned and developed by Croatia based tech company SofaIT will collect and analyse match data to the millions of global users of the Sofascore app, of teams and players taking part in the 2024 edition of the nation's sought-after off-season football tournament. 

Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne, and FC Ebedei Stadium in Sagamu are billed to host the Optima Energy Gold Cup from August 15th to 24th.

"The Optima Energy Gold Cup is thrilled to join forces with SofaScore, as they are considered among the leading statistical analysts in football, bringing to fans the most comprehensive and insightful football analysis available," said Tunde Shamsudeen, the tournament General Coordinator.

"As the off-season football tourney continues to captivate our audiences in the last 11 editions, arose the need to take it to a new level at the 12th edition in Ikenne and Sagamu 

"The partnership is set to revolutionize pre-season football in Nigeria, with infographics custom-made to fit content of our domestic football League. 

"Fans can leverage on this unique experience by downloading the SofaScore app on their mobile devices from the Google PlayStore or Apple Store to keep track of their favorite teams and players' match-by-match stats."

Optima Energy Gold Cup, Made In Africa Sports Seal Partnership

 

Pan-African tech-driven media firm and sports data analytics, news, and content creation specialist, Made In Africa Sports (MIAS) has sealed a partnership deal with the Optima Energy Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament. 

The 12th edition of the nation's premier pre-season tourney for football clubs in the three-tiers of the league kicks off at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu on Thursday, August 15, with the finals scheduled for Saturday, August 24, 2024.

Made In Africa Sports Executive Director Enitan Obadina explains the importance of the partnership in a chat with the Media Channel of the nation's most sought-after pre-season tourney. 

"The Optima Energy Gold Cup is the most consistent preseason football tournament, and we know they stand for excellence. 

"This is why the partnership is exciting for us at Made in Africa Sport as we look forward to sharing our expertise and home-grown solutions to how fans and football clubs enjoy football through data. 

"Made In Africa Sports data solutions give insight to teams and a different experience for fans who watch the game."

The tournament's General Coordinator Tunde Shamsudeen said; "We are delighted to have Made In Africa Sports as one of our partners. 

"This is not the first time we're having a sports data firm as a partner, but that of MIAS is unique, as their speciality is of essence to the clubs taking part in the pre-season tournament, as they will be using data to help players and teams perform better. 

"It's a new approach that takes the guesswork out of coaching, giving clear insights that help improve training and tactics going into the new football season."

Darajeph Technologies partners Optima Energy Gold Cup with POTM awards

 

Darajeph Technologies joins the growing list of brands that have signed a partnership deal with the Optima Energy Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament. 

The 12th edition of the nation's pre-season tourney for football clubs in the three-tiers of the league kicks off at the Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne and FC Ebedei Stadium, Sagamu on Thursday August 15, with the finals scheduled for Saturday August 24, 2024.

Darajeph Technologies specializes in mobile, web application, web design, client-server application, cloud application, system integration, internet of things and database management.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Darajeph Technologies, Oloruntoba Samson Segun expressed his delight at the deal. 

According to Segun, "We understand how passionate Nigerians are about football and we are proud to be partners with the Optima Energy Gold Cup Pre-season Tournament. 

"At this year's edition, we have made provisions for 15 Darajeph Technologies Player Of The Match (POTM) awards for the best talents."

Tournament General Coordinator, Tunde Shamsudeen said: "We are delighted to welcome our new partners, Darajeph Technologies to the Optima Energy Gold Cup family. 

"The Optima Energy Gold Cup is a prestigious annual event attracting thousands of football fans in and outside the shores of Nigeria, where football is loved by all."

NPFL Promotion: Optima Energy Gold Cup applauds Beyond Limits

 

Organizers of the prestigious pre-season football tourney for clubs in the nation's three-tier league divisions, Optima Energy Gold Cup has showered emcomiums on newly promoted Nigeria Premier Football League club Beyond Limits FA. 

The fast-rasing Ikenne-based football academy made history in Nigeria domestic football became the first academy side to earn promotion from the Nationwide League One (NLO), to the Nigeria National League and to the NPFL within the space of three season. 

General Coordinator of the Optima Energy Gold Cup, Tunde Shamsudeen told the tourney's Media Channel. 

"Congratulations to Honourable Kunle Soname, whose vision and passion for football development in Nigeria, can't be measured looking at the huge investment in Beyond Limits and Remo Stars. 

"For everything that starts from a great beginning, always ends with success. Within five years, Beyond Limits, who are reigning Optima Energy Gold Cup kings, are a household name and a brand that plays magnificent football. 

"We are proud that the Optima Energy Gold Cup platform galvanized the team to be a force in the NNL than just make up the numbers. 

"Beyond Limits growth from the NLO to NPFL is not rocket science, but came about years of hardwork, dedication and putting the right pegs in right holes. 

“As football pundits would say, the game of football belongs to the players but heavy is the head that carries the crown.

"Kudos to the coaching staff of the football academy, led by Golden Eaglets assistant coach, Olumide Ajibolade. 

"Olumide, whose football philosophy is geared towards transforming raw talents to finished products, wowed every fan with his team's play. 

As his lads were fearless in Enugu, pushed top teams in both the regular season and play-off to their limits and got the job done by winning the top prize via a thrilling finale and spots kicks against former NPFL top guns and FA Cup champions Nasarawa United. 

"We hope this triumph will take them many places, as we urged Beyond Limits not to rest in its oars to achieving greater things."

Wabzeem Sports partners Optima Energy Gold Cup with MVP, Golden Shoe prizes

A reputable sports management firm based in Ibadan, Wabzeem has become the newest partner of the Optima Energy Gold Cup pre-season tourney ongoing in Ikenne and Apele-Sagamu, Ogun State.

Wabzeem Sports Management who joined the Optima Energy Gold Cup will be gifting the tournament Most Valuable Player and top scorer a unique plaque as an award for superb brilliance.

General Coordinator, Tunde Shamsudeen told the nation's prestigious pre-season tourney' Media Channel: "We are delighted that Wabzeem Sports Management has identified with the Optima Energy Gold Cup brand by way of partnership.

"They will be presenting an MVP and golden shoe award to the best player after the final of the 10 days tournament.

"Let me inform that, just after Matchday 2 in the 11th edition of the tourney designed to prepare teams in the three-tier division of Nigeria's  domestic leagues, we have seen more than four players already in the hunt for both awards, following their impressive showing for their respective teams and scoring form at goal.

"An interesting thing we have lined up, is fan activation, as they will be the ones to vote the Optima Energy Gold Cup  pre-season tourney MVP at the final.

Wabzeem Sports Management, under the umbrella of Oladele Barees, are known for breeding champion for the future and represent players interest in and out the shores of Nigeria.

Optima Energy Gold Cup: Olayiwola motivates Hammola FC with 100k gesture

 

Former Osun State Football Association Presidential aspirant in the 2023 election, Alhaji Olafiranye Olayiwola  has once again extended his philanthropic gesture towards the growth of Osun football, after he dangled a sum of N100,000 naira to Hammola FC at the on going 11th edition of the Optima Energy Gold Cup.

Olayiwola, a member of the Nigeria Football Coaches Association, Osun State chapter was a surprised guest during one of the Matchday 2 fixture at the Remo Stars International Stadium in Ikenne on Sunday.

Speaking to the Media Channel of the Optima Energy Gold Cup after he made available the fund to the President of Ido-Osun based Hammola FC .

"The gesture is my little way of supporting Hammola FC and by extension supporting youth development in Osun State via the sport we all have a passion for, football.

"I want commend Odeyemi Muideen on the platform he has made avaliable for his players, saw the zeal of Hammola players, as they gave their best in their game against Ijebu-United. Not minding the result, many of the players in the team have a bright future if they keep their focus," Olayiwola said.

Despite vying for the Osun State football top job and stepping down on the day of election, Olayiwola who has not stop giving to the growth of the round leather game, has hinted on the reasons that spurs him on.

"It has been my usual habit, regardless me contesting and stepping down on the day of Osun State FA election, it motivates me when see well meaningful individuals contributing to the success of football and youth empowerment."

On where he hopes to see Osun Football in next five or 10 years, "I share same idealogy with the General Coordinator of the Optima Energy Gold Cup, Tunde Shamsudeen and a few others who want the best future for the game and for our youths to thrive.

"Presently things are changing for the good, as we now a partner that is providing branding expertise for Osun Football. This is the first of its time and we are hopeful that better things will come the way of the sport in the coming season."

Sunshine Stars, Ijebu United to kickoff Optima Energy Gold Cup Tourney

Former champions Sunshine Stars will battle debutant Ijebu United in a southwest derby as the Optima Energy Gold Cup 11th edition kicks off 3pm on Friday, at the electrifying Remo Stars International Stadium in Ikenne - Ogun State.

Optima Energy Gold Cup, the nation's prestigious pre-season tourney avail clubs in the three tiers of the domestics League- Nigeria Premier Football League, Nigeria National League and Nationwide League One the platform to prepare their squad going into the new season.

Sunshine Stars, Beyond Limits FA, Ijebu United and Hammola FC make up the teams in Group A and will have their matches in Ikenne.

Seventh edition champion in Ilorin, Niger Tornadoes and back-to-back finalist Shooting Stars will be having their hands full in Group B, as they tackle 'giant killers' FC Ebedei and Tradesafe FC at the FC Ebedei Stadium in Apele-Sagamu.

General Coordinator of the tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen says anxious Optima Energy Gold Cup fans should expect the best from the teams, who are poised to keep them on their edge of their seats at stadiums and where ever they are live streaming the matches from, with quality football artistry and sublime goals.

"The Optima Energy Gold Cup has over the years proven to be the best platform for clubs to take shape going into the season, and we are proud that we have written history with many clubs, who have gone to becoming NPFL champions, qualified for the CAF Champions League/ Confederation Cup and secured promotion.

"The tourney without bias, give teams in Nigeria's three-tier leagues equal opportunities to be part of its yearly event, and this year's edition will be no exception, as we have balanced groupings, with each consisting of teams in the NPFL, NNL and NLO.

"We expect a thriller in the opening game, as it's a southwest derby between Sunshine Stars and Ijebu United at the Remo Stars International Stadium."

House of Reps member, Hon. Ekene Adams appoints veteran sports journalists as media aides

Towards ensuring quality information flow and the actualization of his mission and vision,  Chairman House Committee on Sports, Honourable Ekene Adams Abubakar, has appointed his Media Assistants.

Honourable Ekene Adams confirmed Tunde Shamsudeen as head of his 4-man media team in an official letter dated 9th of August, 2023.

According to him, Shamsudeen's profile, professionalism, loyalty, versatility, media network power, passion for sports made him the best choice for the job.

Shamsudeen is the General Coordinator of the most glamorous Pre-Season Football Championship (Ogunjobi Gold Cup) in Nigeria.

He is happily married to Mrs Olamide Shamsudeen and the union is blessed with a daughter. 

Shamsudeen, born and bred in Minna, Niger State capital studied Mass Communication at The Polytechnic, Ibadan and speaks English, Hausa and Yoruba fluently.

He started his journalism career with Osun Network Newspaper, worked as Media Officer of the defunct Anambra United,  Correspondent at The Sun Newspaper, SoccerStar (now Sporting Sun), Media Officer of Prime FC now Osun United. He also worked with Sportalkafrica.com, Opera News Hub, Buwanews.com, Nationalwatch.com and South West Coordinator for mycujoo.tv live streaming team.

He was the Special Adviser On General Matters and Media Aide, to former Secretary General Nigeria Football Federation NFF, late Chief Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi and he is also an NPFL Match Commissioner.

TS, as fondly called by his admirers is a winner of several awards and he is expected to bring his vast experience to bear on his new assignment.

Making the Media Team are the trio of Niyi Busari, and Hot FM (Abuja) duo of Michael Obasi and Modupeola Oyewale.

Busari - is an award winning journalist, the Publisher and CEO of BSN Sports Concepts, one of the most celebrated Nigerian sports journalists of his generation. A"cross-over" professional, he combines the talents and abilities of a print and electronic journalist in a manner that is rare, even though his specialization is print. A graduate of Economics from the University of Abuja where he obtained his Bachelor Degree in 2015.

Obasi is an experienced Award Winning  Sports Journalist who has been on Radio talking Sports over the  last 15 years years.

He has been On Hot FM Abuja talking Sports on his Award Winning show  Hotsports.

He is currently the Anchor of the Radio Sports Show Roughkick Radio Show on Hot FM Abuja.

He is a Graduate of Theatre Arts from the University of Abuja and also obtained Diploma in Mass Communication from the same University.

He has worked as Media Aide to former Plateau State Governorship Aspirant and Chairman of Giwa FC Ambassador Chris Giwa.

He is also a Media Consultant to one of the country's top football Academies Water FC.

He hails from Abia state and he is happily married with a son.

Oyewale, who hails from Osun State is a seasoned and experienced Sport Journalist on radio for over thirteen years.

She is currently the Co- Anchor of the Radio Sports Show Roughkick Radio Show on Hot FM Abuja.

Oyewale, who's also a news reporter and producer, is a Graduate of Mass Communication from Moshood Abiola Polytechnic, Ogun State.

She has worked as a Team Coordinator for the Under 17 women's national team, the Flamingos.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup salutes Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, Beyond Limits for CAF, NPFL, NNL feats

 

Organizers of the prestigious preseason tourney for domestic league clubs in Nigeria, Ogunjobi Gold Cup have given salutes to the management and technical staff of Remo Stars, Beyond Limits, and Sporting Lagos following feats they recorded at the football season-ending playoffs.

Remo Stars, the Optima Energy Gold Cup defending champion, made history in June at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena after they picked a ticket to feature in the prestigious CAF Champions League in the 2023/24 season, just a year after playing in the CAF Confederation Cup.

The club had recorded significant success after its academy team, Beyond Limits gained promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL) following a 4-1 playoff victory over First Bank.

Sporting Lagos, against the odds, made a bold statement on Monday as they became the first Southern Conference team to earn a promotion ticket to the Nigeria Premier League with a game to spare at the playoffs in Asaba.

Coach Paul Offor guided his team to back-to-back wins against FC One Rocket and Abeokuta Stormers, to stay top of the group after Matchday 2 on 6 points.

Tunde Shamsudeen, General Coordinator of the tourney, "Congratulations to the Remo Stars, Sporting Lagos, and Beyond Limits for the successes recorded in the 2022/23 season. 

"We are delighted to be part of their success story as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup/ Optima Energy Gold Cup was the platform they used to get in shape for the football season that's almost ending.

"The interesting aspect of it all is the three clubs are privately owned, so the feat is a reward for the huge investments. The trio clubs are now a model and reference point for intending football investors to follow. 

"I want to charge the management of the teams not to relent in its drive to make their teams a top brand in Nigeria's domestic football by aiming for more successes, good luck for the future."

Ogunjobi Gold Cup celebrates Sports philanthropist, Hon. Soname at 57

 

Organizers of the nation's prestigious pre-season club football tourney, Ogunjobi Gold Cup has felicitated with Honourable Kunle Soname on his 57th birthday celebration.

General Coordinator of the tournament, Tunde Shamsudeen on Thursday poured encomiums on the Ikenne-born businessman.

"I join family, the Nigerian football circle and indeed the many lives he has touched to celebrate Soname, a rear gem, perfect gentleman, business mogul, and philanthropist, whose generosity knows no bounds.

"A man who has set standards, that only a few who share the same life ideologies with him can match, as he has written his name on marble in many things he has laid his hands on from business, football and human development.

"In our sector, football, Soname represents hope for the youths as he is the biggest private investor in the beautiful game, with his multi-million naira investment on Remo Stars and Beyond Limits.

"It gives the Ogunjobi Gold Cup brand prestige to be associated with the Remo Stars President in the last 10 years, as we also celebrate him on his special day.

"Blessed with the riches of life, what I pray almighty Allah (God) for, is more years of sound health for Honourable Soname and the wisdom."

Evolution Cup: Top honours for Late Rasheed Balogun, Kunle Soname, four others as draw holds on Saturday

Organizers of Evolution Cup have announced plans to honor six personalities who have made outstanding impact on football development in Nigeria over the years. 

The maiden edition of the Evolution Cup will go down in Ikenne from February 21st to 26th, 2022. A preseason tournament established for Nationwide League One (NLO) clubs to prepare for the new season. 

Olatoye Olawale, who is the Project Strategist of the Evolution Cup confirmed that six people will be honored for their numerous support for football development in the country. 

“This is an oppurtunity to appreciate those who are working so hard, to make football develop in this country- and we are glad that this is coming in the first year of the tournament”. Olatoye said. 

Former General manager of Shooting Stars, Rasheed Balogun, who died on January 20th is a recipient of an award, for his commitment to football development in Nigeria.

The Proprietor of Remo Stars and the owner of Bet9ja, Kunle Soname will be recognized for supporting the development of Nigeria football over the years. 

While the Chairman Ekiti State Football Association, Bayo Olalenge will be recognized for his commitment to Ekiti football development, Tunde Shamsudeen will also be honored for his consistent delivery of a top notch preseason tournament. 

Other recipient of the award includes Chief Operating Officer of NLO, Olushola Ogunowo and Akanni Agboola, for their total support and commitment to grassroots football in Nigeria.

Also, draws for the maiden edition of Evolution Cup will be held at Remo Stars Stadium, Ikenne on Saturday, 5th February, 2022, to start by 2pm with teams representative and other stakeholders in attendance.

The tournament, sponsored by Alphakay International Sports and Packaged by Sportsflames communication will feature Abraysports FC, Right 2 Win FC, Olansile FC, Hammola International FC and Beyond Limits FC.

Other teams that would be rolling out their aces for the 5-day soccer fiesta are Rolly FC, Magic Stars FC, Olukismet FC, Ilaji FC and SGFC Athletics .

Osun Sports Commissioner, Oliseh to grace FUBF Day

 

Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Osun State Honourable Yemi Lawal is among the top personalities that will be guests at the third edition of Family United By Football (FUBF Day) in Osogbo on Sunday, as Barrister Churchill Oliseh, President of Nationwide League One (NLO) club, FC Ebedei will deliver a lecture.

FUBF is a vibrant sports group on social media platform WhatsApp and has the key stakeholders of sports in Osun State and  Nigeria as members.  

The group's admin, Tunde Shamsudeen informed:  "This year's FUBF Day will be one not to forget in a hurry as a few very important personalities(VIPs) who have made their mark in sports will grace the event and also share their success stories.

"One of such persons is Honourable Yemi Lawal. The 'Working Progress' is a square peg in a square hole. In less than two years he has been able to rejuvenate sports in the state. The successes recorded at the Osun State Sports Festival is still fresh in our memories.

"Another is our guest speakers Barrister Churchill Oliseh. A result-oriented individual who has written his name on a platter of gold when it comes to football at the grassroot.

"It's on record that since 1995, there is no medal Nigeria won in football that you won't see a product of FC Ebedei. Churchill Oliseh will deliver a lecture titled: 'Football As A Possible Investments, Principles And Challenges'."

"Also the Special Adviser to Governor Oyetola on Youths and Sports, Aremo Adegboyega Adelabu, and the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Osun State on Sports Development, Vincent Akinbami are guest of the occasion.

"Not forgetting the Osun Sports Council General Manager, Rotimi Dunmoye, President Hammola Int'l FC, Muideen Odeyemi and President HMK, Yemi Adesiyan they too will grace the event." 

Recall Churchill, the elder brother of former Super Eagles coach and the captain is credited with discovering Nigerian internationals like Obafemi Martins, Paul Onuachu (Genk, Belgium), Frank Onyeka (Brentford, England) among others via his platform FC Ebedei.

Top honors for Qamar at Oduduwa University Sports Award Night

 

Adegoke Qamar an undergraduate of the Oduduwa University, Osun State has been named the Footballer of the Year and Sportsman of the Year.

Qamar stole the show after he walked away with the two prestigious awards at the varsity's Institute of Sports Awards held Friday at main auditorium of the citadel of learning in Ipetumode.

Qamar, the School team captain is a student of the Department of Economics and beat other nominees to win the Institute of Sports top gongs.

Top personalities that also receive awards at the citadel of knowledge is the Osun State Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Special Needs, Honourable Yemi Lawal, Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Asiwaju Seun Fakorede, and General Coordinator Nigeria's First Pre-Season Tournament Ogunjobi Gold Cup, Tunde Shamsudeen, among others.

Ogunjobi Gold Cup bags Oduduwa University Sports Award

 

Its another milestone for the Ogunjobi Gold Cup Pre-Season Tournament as it will receive a Sports Award from the Oduduwa University Institute of Sports.

This will be a 5th award for the Ogunjobi Gold Cup organizers who hosted its 9th edition in Ikenne and Sagamu last month. Recall Remo Stars were crowned champions after they defeated Shooting Stars 4-0 in the final.

General Coordinator of Nigeria's First Pre-Season Tourney, Tunde Shamsudeen will receive the award on November 26th at the Ipetumodu campus of the University in Osun State.

According to the varsity Director of Sports, Adewunmi Michael Oluwatosin, the Ogunjobi Gold Cup was considered on merit for the award going by its track record.

"The Ogunjobi Gold Cup Tourney which concluded its 9th edition is one tourney that is consistently managed by Shamsudeen and his team. 

"When you look at the status of teams that participate in it yearly, shows its importance, as the tourney is the best platform where teams prepare for the upcoming football season.

"The Ogunjobi Gold Cup is also another avenue for our domestic players who are seeking new deals to express themselves to both clubs and managers.

"It's an award truly deserving to Shamsudeen, as the Ogunjobi Gold Cup have impacted the lives of our youths and the development of the game of football which unifies us all as Nigerians."

Shamsudeen expressed his delight as he thanked the Institute of Sports, Oduduwa University for yet another laudable award.

Top personalities to receive award at the citadel of knowledge is the Osun State, Commissioner for Youth, Sports and Special Needs, Honourable Yemi Lawal, and Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Asiwaju Seun Fakorede. 

Others includes HRE Dr Ramon Adegoke Atobatele Adedoyin Maye Yoruba Land ( Chief Host), and Prof. Benjamin Segun Aribisala, Chancellor (Host).

Lanre Ogunjobi aims to surpass Late father's records in football administration

Lanre Ogunjobi has revealed that his goal is to better his late dad Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi in football administration cum marketing.

Speaking before the final of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup, a pre-season tournament in honour of the late Nigeria Football Association(NFA) Secretary-General, Lanre expressed delight that his dad is still been recognized. 

"My dad left a good legacy as one of the best football administrators in Nigerian. I also want to follow that part as I work in the Marketing Department of League Management Company (LMC).

"Am still learning the ropes but obviously, as I grow in the job I know I will achieve my dreams as am also very passionate about Nigerian football.

"Late Ogunjobi was astute with his administrative and management skills but for me, my focus is more on the business side of football.

"We all know the beautiful game is capital intensive and requires a lot of funds, so my job as one who has marketing skills is to convince our corporate Nigeria clients to put their monies in our football."

Lanre, scored the organisation of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup high as he also thanked Nigerians that have been of the successes the tourney has recorded.

"The pre-season tourney which started nine years ago keeps improving and raising the bar as the best in Nigeria.

" We family members of late Ogunjobi, are thankful to everyone who has supported the tournament and the General Coordinator Tunde Shamsudeen and his team. 

"I saw the semi-final game between Remo Stars and Tornadoes, it was a cracker. Remo Stars also showed class winning the final against Shooting Stars. From what I have seen, my family and I are looking forward to the 10th edition of the Ogunjobi Gold Cup.'

The country's first pre-Season tournament was proudly sponsored by Optima Energy, and funded by Alansmith Nigeria Limited, Taiwo Joseph Ogunjobi Foundation, Nigeria leading sportswear firms, Owu, Haggai Sportswear, Afripro, Naija League Magazine, Matchroom, Sports, 11th Media Global Concept, Phreestyle Sports, Renewed Hope, Kao Concept, Seyi Akinwunmi Charity Foundation, Dejavu Communication, Olansile Football Academy, TSI Football Club and ITS Football Management.