BREAKING: Alansmith Nigeria Limited Opens Partnership Talks with Orumogege Sports Services

‎Foremost sports construction and development company, Alansmith Nigeria Limited, has opened discussions with Orumogege Sports Services on a possible strategic partnership aimed at deepening sports promotion, grassroots development and talent discovery across Nigeria.

‎The emerging partnership is expected to bring together Alansmith Nigeria Limited’s experience in sports infrastructure and facility development and Orumogege Sports Services’ growing involvement in sports promotion, youth engagement and grassroots competitions. Although discussions are still at the engagement stage, both organisations are understood to be exploring areas of mutual interest that could create new opportunities for young athletes and contribute to the development of sporting communities.

‎Alansmith Nigeria Limited has, over the years, established a reputation for supporting the development of sports infrastructure, with particular attention to football facilities and playing environments that can bring organised sporting activities closer to communities.

‎The company has consistently advocated the development of functional sports facilities as an important component of youth empowerment, talent identification and community development.

‎Its philosophy of taking sports closer to the people has seen the company participate in initiatives designed to improve sporting environments and provide athletes with better platforms to train, compete and develop their abilities.

‎Through its sports construction activities, Alansmith has also promoted the idea of creating modern playing facilities that can serve schools, academies, communities and professional sporting organisations.

‎On the other hand, Orumogege Sports Services has continued to position itself as a platform for sports promotion, youth development and community engagement. Its activities, including the Orumogege Cup, have attracted attention for combining competitive football with grassroots talent discovery, community participation and social development.

‎The Orumogege Cup has particularly provided young footballers with an opportunity to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment while bringing communities together through sport. The initiative has also attracted the support of individuals and organisations committed to using sports as a vehicle for youth empowerment and community development.

‎Chairman Orumogege Sports Services, Amos Ado said the proposed collaboration could focus on several areas, including sports facility development, grassroots football programmes, talent discovery, youth competitions, sports academies and the improvement of playing facilities for communities and educational institutions.

‎The partnership talks also come at a time when stakeholders in Nigerian sports continue to emphasise the need for greater private-sector participation in the development of sports infrastructure and grassroots programmes. With government resources often stretched across several sectors, private organisations such as Alansmith and sports development platforms such as Orumogege could play complementary roles in creating sustainable opportunities for young people.

‎If concluded, the partnership could provide a framework for combining infrastructure with sporting programmes—ensuring that improved facilities are matched with regular competitions, coaching opportunities and talent-development initiatives.

‎Industry observers believe such collaborations could also help bridge one of the longstanding gaps in Nigerian grassroots sports: the disconnect between discovering talented young athletes and providing them with adequate facilities and structured pathways for development.

‎The discussions between Alansmith Nigeria Limited and Orumogege Sports Services are therefore being closely watched by stakeholders who see sports not only as entertainment but also as an important tool for youth development, employment creation, social integration and community advancement.

‎For Alansmith Nigeria Limited, the proposed engagement further reflects its continued commitment to sports promotion and development in Nigeria.

‎For Orumogege Sports Services, the discussions represent an opportunity to expand its sports-development activities and explore stronger institutional partnerships capable of giving grassroots athletes greater exposure.

‎While no final agreement has been publicly announced, the opening of talks signals a potentially significant collaboration between two organisations operating from complementary sides of the sports-development ecosystem.

‎The emerging message is clear: when quality sports infrastructure meets organised grassroots development, Nigerian youths can have a stronger platform to discover, develop and showcase their talents.

Written by: Tope Eluyefa 

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2027 Elections: Oyo NUJ Creates Platform for Candidates to Engage Voters

The Oyo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has constituted a five-member committee to coordinate a public debate for political candidates ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The initiative is designed to create an open and credible platform where candidates can articulate their policies, programmes and vision, while giving the electorate an opportunity to scrutinise their positions on issues affecting the state and its people.

The committee is headed by Mr Olayinka Agboola, while Mr Oluseye Ojo will serve as Secretary. Other members are Mrs Oyebukola Oriowo, Mrs Omolola Alamu and Mr Olusoji Ajibola.

In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Oyo State Council Chairman, Mr Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Mr Temidayo Adu, the council directed the committee to engage relevant stakeholders and develop an appropriate framework for the successful conduct of the debate.

The NUJ said the date, venue, format, participating candidates and other details of the programme would be communicated as preparations advance.

The council also urged political parties, candidates, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to support the initiative, stressing that the debate was part of efforts to encourage issue-based political engagement and strengthen democratic participation in Oyo State.

According to the union, the proposed debate will enable members of the public to hear candidates present their ideas and programmes directly, while providing voters with relevant information to consider as the 2027 elections approach.

By Tope Eluyefa 

Urukpe Mena Endorses Godwin Ikuru for Delta Central Senate Seat

 

The Urukpe Mena of Delta Central has declared its support for Hon. Godwin Ikuru, describing him as “our true son” and endorsing his ambition to represent Delta Central Senatorial District at the National Assembly on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP).

The group said Ikuru’s decision to contest the senatorial seat presents an opportunity for the people of Delta Central to rally behind a candidate who shares a strong bond with the people and is committed to the development and progress of the district.

According to the Urukpe Mena, the people of Delta Central deserve effective and purposeful representation that will prioritise their interests, attract meaningful development and ensure that their concerns are adequately represented at the National Assembly.

The group therefore urged residents, political stakeholders and supporters across the senatorial district to unite behind Ikuru and support his aspiration in the forthcoming election.

Describing Ikuru as a “true son of Delta Central,” the group expressed confidence that his emergence as senator would usher in renewed representation and greater attention to the needs and aspirations of the people.

It also called on eligible voters across the senatorial district to participate actively in the electoral process and make informed choices based on competence, commitment and the overall interests of the people.

The Urukpe Mena maintained that supporting credible and committed candidates remains essential to achieving effective representation and sustainable development in Delta Central.

FUJI FIREWORKS! RAHMON AKANNI THRILLS SOUN, DIGNITARIES AT ORUMOGEGE CUP

What was expected to be a colourful football opening ceremony turned into a spectacular celebration of music, culture and entertainment when popular Fuji musician Alhaji Rahmon Akanni took centre stage at the opening ceremony of the 3rd Orumogege Football Competition in Ogbomoso.

Raymond King as he is fondly called, an indigene of Ogbomoso and a well-travelled Fuji exponent with strong connections across Nigeria and beyond, electrified the atmosphere with his energetic performance, turning the football gathering into a carnival-like celebration.

The highly entertaining session saw His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomoso, alongside other dignitaries and football lovers, rise to their feet as Akani delivered a captivating blend of Fuji rhythms, traditional sounds and contemporary entertainment.

The stadium atmosphere quickly changed from football anticipation to a full-blown celebration, as spectators sang along, danced and cheered the musician, whose performance added colour and excitement to the historic occasion.

Known for his energetic stagecraft and ability to connect with audiences, Akani demonstrated once again why he remains one of the notable Fuji musicians promoting the values, culture and entertainment heritage of the Yoruba people.

His appearance at the Orumogege Cup opening also highlighted the strong connection between sports, music and culture, particularly in an event celebrating the anniversary of the reign of the Soun of Ogbomoso.

The musician's performance was particularly significant given his roots in Ogbomoso. A well-travelled entertainer who has performed and built relationships across different parts of the world, Akani has continued to use his music as a vehicle for promoting his cultural heritage while connecting with audiences at home and abroad.

For many spectators, the highlight of the opening ceremony was not only the arrival of the participating football teams but the moment Akani took over the stage and transformed the venue into a massive entertainment arena.

With the Soun and other dignitaries visibly enjoying the performance, the football ceremony took on the character of a grand cultural carnival, providing spectators with a memorable experience before the competition got underway.

The colourful display further reinforced the growing stature of the Orumogege Football Competition, which combines grassroots football with culture, entertainment, youth development and community celebration.

As the 3rd edition gets underway, Rahmon Akani's electrifying performance has already provided one of the talking points of the tournament, proving that in Ogbomoso, football and music can come together to create a celebration that goes far beyond the pitch.

Story By 

Tope Eluyefa 

OGBOMOSO TURNS FOOTBALL CITY AS 3RD ORUMOGEGE COMPETITION KICKS OFF IN GRAND STYLE

OGBOMOSO — Ogbomoso was thrown into a football frenzy as the Soun Township Stadium played host to an impressive gathering of football enthusiasts, supporters, dignitaries, community leaders and young talents for the grand opening of the 3rd Edition of the Orumogege Football Competition.

The opening ceremony attracted a massive crowd, with the stadium filled to capacity as spectators turned out to witness the commencement of one of the fast-growing grassroots football competitions in Ogbomosoland.

From the stands to the touchline, the atmosphere was charged with excitement as passionate supporters cheered, sang and waved in support of their respective teams, creating a carnival-like setting for the kick-off of the tournament.

Organised by Orumogege Sports Service under the leadership of its Chairman, Amos Adewale Ado, the competition has continued to gain momentum since its inception, establishing itself as a platform designed not only to promote football but also to discover, nurture and expose emerging talents.

The third edition further underlines the organisers' commitment to grassroots sports development, youth empowerment and community engagement, providing young footballers with an opportunity to showcase their abilities in a competitive environment.

The impressive turnout also highlighted the growing popularity of the tournament, with the large crowd serving as a strong indication of the passion for grassroots football among residents of Ogbomosoland.

Chairman Amos Adewale Ado and members of the organising committee affirmed that the tournament goes beyond the pursuit of trophies and medals. It is also an avenue to bring communities together, keep young people actively engaged, promote healthy competition and provide a pathway for talented players who dream of progressing to higher levels of the game.

The organisers have also continued to position the Orumogege competition as part of the broader effort to use football as a vehicle for youth development, social integration and talent discovery at the grassroots.

With the opening ceremony successfully concluded and the stadium already buzzing with football fever, attention now shifts to the matches ahead as participating teams battle for supremacy and the coveted title of the third edition.

The tournament is expected to produce thrilling encounters, outstanding individual performances and potentially unearth players capable of making the leap from grassroots football to the professional stage.

As the Orumogege Football Competition enters its third chapter, all eyes are now on the young stars to deliver the goals, drama and unforgettable moments that have made grassroots football a powerful force in Ogbomoso.

2026 ORUMOGEGE CUP: GRASSROOTS STARS SET FOR BATTLE AS ORGANISERS PROMISE TOP-CLASS SHOW

The organisers of the 2026 Orumogege Football Competition have promised a bigger and more competitive third edition, with talent discovery, youth empowerment and community development at the heart of the tournament.

Chairman of the Orumogege Sport Service, Amos Adewale Ado, made this known on Sunday during a press conference at the Ogbomoso Recreation Club, ahead of the commencement of the competition.

The tournament, which was initiated to commemorate the anniversary of the installation of His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III, the Soun of Ogbomoso, has continued to grow in stature, attracting increasing attention from football enthusiasts and stakeholders across Ogbomoso land.

Ado said the competition has moved beyond the traditional battle for silverware, stressing that its bigger objective is to create a platform where young footballers can showcase their abilities and potentially secure opportunities with scouts, clubs and other football stakeholders.

“Our focus is not only on winning trophies but also on creating opportunities for young footballers to demonstrate their abilities and attract the attention of scouts, clubs and other football stakeholders,” Ado said.

He described football as an effective instrument for youth development, noting that the game teaches discipline, teamwork, leadership, commitment and perseverance.

According to him, the Orumogege Cup represents an investment in the future of Ogbomoso football, with the organisers determined to create a pathway through which promising grassroots players can progress to higher levels of the sport.

The chairman urged participating clubs to approach the competition with ambition, discipline and respect for the laws of the game, insisting that the tournament should produce more than champions.

He said the ultimate goal was to groom young players who would not only excel on the football pitch but also emerge as responsible ambassadors of Ogbomoso.

Ado also assured participating teams, match officials and other stakeholders of a professionally organised tournament, promising transparency, fairness, discipline and a level playing field throughout the competition.

He commended the Soun of Ogbomoso for his vision and commitment to programmes promoting youth development and unity across Ogbomosoland.

He also acknowledged the contributions of the Oyo State Government and Ministry of Youth and Sports Development, sponsors, partners, football administrators, referees, security agencies, medical personnel, the media and other stakeholders whose support has contributed to the steady growth of the competition.

The Orumogege Sport Service chairman further called on the media to intensify coverage of the tournament, noting that sustained publicity would help expose talented players and attract greater attention to grassroots football in the ancient city.

With the organisers promising a “bigger, better and more impactful” third edition, the 2026 Orumogege Cup is expected to further establish itself as one of the emerging grassroots football platforms in Ogbomoso, combining competitive football with talent identification, youth empowerment and community unity.

The third edition is being organised as part of activities marking the third anniversary of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye Orumogege III on the throne of Ogbomosoland.

Oriolowo Picks ADC Ticket, Appeals to Osun West Voters for Support

Former Senator representing Osun West Senatorial District in the 9th National Assembly, Senator Adelere Oriolowo, has secured the African Democratic Congress (ADC) ticket to contest the senatorial seat in the forthcoming election.

Oriolowo, who previously served under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said his decision to seek another term was in response to the desire of his constituents to have him return to the National Assembly and continue the work he started during his previous tenure.

Speaking on his candidacy, the former senator said he remained committed to the development and welfare of the people of Osun West, stressing that his experience in the 9th Assembly had prepared him to deliver more effective representation.

He appealed to residents across the senatorial district to support his aspiration and turn out in large numbers to vote for him when the election takes place.

Oriolowo expressed confidence in the people of Osun West, saying their support would enable him to return to the Senate and continue contributing to legislation and initiatives aimed at improving the lives of his constituents.

He assured the people that, if elected, he would remain accessible and committed to representing their interests at the National Assembly.