…pledges brighter future for Ondo youths
By Fisayo Akinduro
Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to transforming sports into a powerful platform for youth empowerment, unity and economic growth across the state.
The governor made this known on Monday at the Akure Sports Stadium during the official kick-off of the O’DATIWA Under-17 Football Competition, a statewide tournament aimed at discovering and nurturing young football talents across the 18 local government areas.
Aiyedatiwa said the competition, with the theme “Catching Them Young for a Greater Future in Sports,” represents more than just a sporting event, stressing that it reflects his administration’s vision to invest in the dreams of the younger generation and build a future where every young person can find purpose and pride through sports.
“This event is not just about football; it’s about hope, opportunity and the future of our great state. As a government, we are deliberately investing in the dreams of our young people, nurturing their talents and providing them with a stage to shine, not only before the people of Ondo State but before the nation and the world,” he said.
The governor, who spoke passionately about youth engagement, said sports have, over time, proven to be one of the most effective tools for social integration, discipline and character development.
“When young people are engaged productively, idleness and social vices are reduced, while unity, teamwork and a sense of belonging across communities are strengthened,” Aiyedatiwa added.
He noted that through the O’DATIWA Under-17 Football Competition, his administration intends to identify, groom and support the next generation of football stars who will represent the state and Nigeria at both national and international levels.
Aiyedatiwa commended the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development for its dedication to organising the tournament, as well as the coaches, referees, sponsors and stakeholders who contributed to making the event possible.
“To our young athletes, I say this is your moment. Play with passion, discipline and integrity. Let the spirit of sportsmanship guide you, because beyond winning, the real victory lies in the lessons you learn and the character you build,” the governor charged.
He further assured that his administration would continue to invest in programmes that promote education, skills, innovation and entrepreneurship, alongside sports, to ensure that the youth population becomes a major driver of progress in the state.
“Our government will not relent in creating more platforms like this where young people can channel their energy productively. Sports remain a unifying force that not only inspires hope but also opens doors to global opportunities,” he stated.
Declaring the competition open, Aiyedatiwa urged parents, community leaders and corporate organisations to support youth-oriented initiatives, saying the collective responsibility of grooming disciplined and visionary young citizens must be shared by all.
In his remarks, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, lauded the governor’s consistent support for grassroots sports revival and youth empowerment.
He said the O’DATIWA Under-17 Football Competition was designed to serve as a platform for discovering underprivileged but talented young players who could become the future of Nigerian football.
“This competition is not just about football; it’s about vision, opportunity and the hope of our young generation. Under Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership, our ministry has received the support needed to channel youth energy into productive ventures. This tournament is a testament to his belief in sports as a catalyst for development,” Omoyofunmi stated.
He encouraged participating teams to play with discipline and respect, noting that beyond trophies and medals, the real essence of the tournament lies in character, teamwork and resilience.