By Femi Atolagbe

The Ondo State Government has been called upon to lead a comprehensive overhaul of the sports sector by appointing experienced sports administrators, rather than individuals without a background in sports, to manage the affairs of the sector.

This appeal was made in a communiqué issued at the end of the Congress of the Ondo State Football Association (FA), held at the Police Officers’ Mess in Akure, the state capital.

The association emphasised the need for the government to collaborate with seasoned football administrators within the state as a strategic step toward reviving and improving the sports sector.

The FA also highlighted its efforts to assist Sunshine Stars FC in avoiding relegation during the just-concluded football season, noting the importance of knowledgeable leadership in achieving better results.

According to the communiqué, “Ondo State needs to return to the basics by working with individuals who understand the game. Proper synergy between the government and the state FA is crucial to rebuilding football in the state.”

It expressed concern over the inadequate staffing of the State Sports Council, stating: “It is a sad development that the Sports Council currently has only two football coaches. This council should be actively involved in discovering and nurturing young talent across the state.”

The communiqué further called on the government to revisit the blueprint of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA) and to expedite the completion of the Akure pitch at the Ondo State Sports Complex. This, the FA said, would attract more football matches to the state and boost local sports development.

Additionally, the Congress resolved to pursue the legal case instituted by Coach Kayode Adeyemi and others concerning the outcome of the State FA elections.

The Congress also congratulated Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa on the celebration of his first 100 days in office and commended him for his support of football in the state.

In a bid to groom the next generation of stars, the FA announced plans for the launch of the Ondo State Football League—an age-grade competition designed to discover and develop young football talents across the state.