•A dream rooted in resilience,honor comes to life
In an emotionally charged ceremony marked by deep gratitude and heartfelt tributes, Noble Court — a state-of-the- art basketball court — was officially unveiled in the heart of Sango Ota, Ogun State. But for its founder, the moment was about far more than sport.
“This is not just concrete and paint,” he said. “It’s the physical manifestation of a dream born in a small 9×9 room right here in Sango Ota.”
Named in honor of the late Idowu Ajayi — affectionately known as ID Noble — the court stands as a powerful symbol of hope, pride, and perseverance. It also serves as a tribute to the noble values Mr. Ajayi represented: dignity, discipline, honor, and service.
Growing up in Sango Ota, the court’s founder recalled playing basketball barefoot on dirt courts, often with an empty stomach and tattered clothing, but with an unshakable belief in a better tomorrow. That belief, nurtured by his parents, eventually led him to Warriors Academy under the mentorship of Col. Sam Ahmedu and Coach Peter Ahmedu, and later, to a life-changing basketball scholarship in the United States.
“Returning here to launch Noble Court feels like a full circle moment,” he reflected. “This is a launchpad for future champions and young dreamers.”
The unveiling ceremony drew an impressive cast of contributors and supporters, each recognized for their role
in making the dream a reality. Led by Seyi Ayodele and his company Nuthpole, along with Shola and Ademola Ajayi, ND, Simon Evbuomwan and Philips Braide, the team brought both passion and precision to the project. Special recognition was given to Mohamed Nasr, credited as the visionary behind the court’s striking design.
Two guests, in particular, received moving tributes: Coach Curtis Berry and Dr. Jacque- line Walters — the founder’s American guardians — who took him in during one of the most difficult periods of his life.
“You didn’t know me, but you gave me a home. You loved me like your own,” he said. “Because of your love, this moment exists.”
Also honored was Dr. Green, whose philanthropic support has provided over 1,000 pairs of shoes to children in Nigeria.