Gov Oyebanji, a sports beckon, says Osetoba
The Technical Advisor to Ekiti State Governor, His Excellency, Biodun Oyebanji, on Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, is full of praise for the governor on Nigeria’s 65th Independence Day for his giant strides towards sports in the state.
Dr. Osetoba, described Governor Oyebanji as a beckon of hope and restoration for sports in the State.
Osetoba, who gave her verdict in an interview, said sports was on the verge of collapsing in the state before Governor Oyebanji’s assumption into office, emphasising that the revival taking place in Ekiti State could not have been possible without his resolute support.
She further emphasised that prior to his assumption the was mocked and looked down upon by other states of the Federation due to its poor sporting facilities and events coupled with untrained athletes representing the state at national sporting events.
Dr. Osetoba who led historic Team Ekiti to the recently concluded 9th National Youth Games, was very elated by the quality of support the team received from the Governor, from transportation, to feeding and accommodation.
Ekiti State which was widely known for parading jalopies and poorly kitted athletes, competed in Asaba, the Delta State capital with brand new busses, kits and well trained, home-based athletes.
These Dr. Osetoba said was the reason behind Ekiti’s outstanding performance in basketball at the Games, as they defeated Lagos in the final.
Dr. Osetoba, founder of Osetoba Marathon, further stressed that with concentrated effort, Ekiti State will become a force to reckon with across Nigeria.
The recently concluded Osetoba Marathon brought together 80 athletes across Emure-ekiti LGA, nurturing the love for the sport in Ekiti.
The two-day event began with orientation, a route tour and athlete screening. The main 10-kilometer race took place on Day 2, starting and finishing at the Elemure’s palace.
Before the race, His Royal Majesty, the Elemure of Emure-Ekiti, joined chiefs and dignitaries in a novelty run. He praised the initiative and urged more attention to the town’s sports development.
Ozigi Isaac, wearing number 20, finished first, followed by Emmanuel Ojo and John Monday. Abegunde Abiola was the first female finisher.
The winner received ₦250,000, with ₦150,000 for second place and ₦100,000 for third.
The first female finisher also received ₦100,000.
Competitors placed fourth through 16th shared prizes ranging from ₦50,000 to ₦20,000.
Oluwaseyifunmi Phones provided power banks to podium finishers and the women’s winner.
Isaac, who previously focused on football, said the race opened a new path for him.
“This race has redirected my path. If I channel the same zeal I have for football into athletics, the horizon is bright,” he said, commending organizers.
Dr. Olusola Osetoba, who sponsored the marathon, said it was her way of giving back to her hometown while supporting Gov. Biodun Oyebanji’s grassroots sports agenda.
“This is not a one-off event,” Osetoba said. “It is a seed that will strengthen the future of sports in Ekiti.”
She called on corporate bodies and well meaning individuals to throw their weight behind the Sports in Ekiti State.
