Ondo Governor Launches O’DATIWA U-17 Football Tournament, Pledges Strong Youth Development Drive
Akure, October 27, 2025
In a bold move to harness young talent and drive youth empowerment through sports, Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, on Monday officially kicked off the O’DATIWA Under-17 Football Competition at the Akure Sports Stadium. The statewide tournament aims to identify and nurture football prodigies from all 18 local government areas.
With the theme “Catching Them Young for a Greater Future in Sports,” Governor Aiyedatiwa emphasized that the initiative is more than a football competition—it is a strategic investment in the state’s future. “This event is about hope, opportunity, and building a platform where our young people can shine locally, nationally, and globally,” he said.
The governor highlighted that engaging youths in productive sports activities reduces idleness, promotes community unity, and strengthens teamwork. He assured that the state government would sustain investments in youth programs, including education, skills, innovation, and entrepreneurship, alongside sports development.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also commended the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, coaches, referees, sponsors, and other stakeholders for their role in bringing the tournament to life. He urged parents, community leaders, and corporate organizations to actively support initiatives that nurture disciplined and visionary young citizens.
Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr. Henry Omoyofunmi, praised the governor’s consistent commitment to grassroots sports. He described the tournament as a platform for discovering underprivileged yet talented young players who could become future stars of Nigerian football. “Under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, we have the support to channel youth energy into productive ventures. This competition is a testament to his belief in sports as a catalyst for development,” he said.
Omoyofunmi encouraged teams to prioritize discipline, character, and resilience, stressing that the essence of the tournament goes beyond trophies and medals.
The O’DATIWA U-17 Football Competition marks a significant step in Ondo State’s mission to make sports a key instrument for youth empowerment, talent grooming, and socio-economic progress.
Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Ondo State.
