The Ondo State Government is set to roll out a comprehensive under-17 football tournament across all 18 local government areas, aiming to uncover and develop young football talents throughout the state.
Named the Odatiwa U-17 Football Competition, the event is part of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s ongoing effort to empower youth through sports, creating opportunities for them to showcase their skills and build a sense of community.
On Thursday in Akure, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Mr Segun Omoyofunmi, explained that the competition is designed to be more than just a game. It aims to offer young athletes a clear pathway to professional growth, while instilling values such as teamwork, discipline, and fair play.
He said, “This championship is not just another football competition; it is a movement of hope, unity, and opportunity. It represents His Excellency, Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s visionary commitment to empowering the youth of Ondo State through sports, in alignment with ‘OUR EASE’ agenda. Through this initiative, we are creating a structured pathway for discovering and grooming young football talents from our grassroots communities, while also fostering discipline, teamwork, and the spirit of healthy competition among our young people. Beyond football, this competition is a celebration of unity and cultural identity. We believe that sports have the power to bring people together, irrespective of background, tribe, or belief.”
The Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency, Mr Divine Ogbonnaya, emphasized that exceptional participants would be given support to pursue careers in professional football. This backing will allow talented youngsters to transition from local competitions to higher levels of the sport.
Meanwhile, Mr Segun Giwa, head of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria in Ondo State, assured that the media would actively promote the tournament. He highlighted the importance of visibility in helping young players gain recognition and opportunities to advance their careers.
Beyond talent discovery, the Odatiwa U-17 Football Competition is also about fostering unity, celebrating the state’s diverse culture, and encouraging young people to embrace the values of discipline, perseverance, and teamwork. It presents a platform where local communities come together, and young athletes gain confidence while pursuing their passion for football.
As the tournament prepares to kick off in all local government areas, the state government underscores its commitment to using sports as a tool for youth development, social cohesion, and professional growth, ensuring that the next generation of footballers from Ondo State has the chance to shine on bigger stages.
