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The Organising Committee of the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup has credited the rapid growth and increasing prestige of the competition to the sports development policies of Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji, ahead of the landmark fifth anniversary edition of the tournament in 2026.
The committee stated that preparations are already in top gear for the competition, themed “Building to Last,” which is expected to further strengthen the tournament’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s leading grassroots football development initiatives.
According to the organisers, the progress recorded by the competition since its inception has been driven largely by Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to using sports as a tool for youth empowerment, economic growth, and social development across Ekiti State.
The committee highlighted the administration’s continued investment in sports infrastructure, including the ongoing upgrade of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium to international standards and the construction of a modern indoor sports hall. It noted that the projects have created a more conducive environment for grassroots sports development and talent discovery in the state.
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Sponsor of the tournament, Hon. Akintunde Oyebode, was also commended for sustaining support for the competition through consistent sponsorship and strategic initiatives aimed at institutionalising the tournament for long-term impact.
The organisers said the competition aligns with the broader vision of reducing youth restiveness while creating opportunities for young people through sports development.
Beyond talent discovery, the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup has continued to engage hundreds of youths across Ekiti State, providing opportunities for footballers, coaches, referees, administrators, media practitioners, photographers, content creators, and other stakeholders within the football ecosystem.
The committee reaffirmed its commitment to delivering a professionally organised and sustainable tournament that will continue to contribute meaningfully to youth development and sports advancement in Ekiti State.
