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.

Ayeye Market Drama: Mother Abandons Teenage Daughter And Disappears ‎ ‎

What began as an ordinary business day at the bustling Ayeye Market in Ibadan turned into a heartbreaking scene when an 13-year-old girl, identified as Subomi Akinpelu, was reportedly found crying uncontrollably after being allegedly abandoned by her mother.

‎According to officials of the Park  Management System (PMS) unit operating within the market, the young girl was discovered near the market entrance, visibly distressed and unable to hold back her tears. Traders, drivers and passersby were drawn to the scene as concerned members of the public sought to understand what had happened to the child.

‎The PMS Unit Chairman explained that drivers carrying out their daily activities first noticed the girl standing alone and crying. Efforts were immediately made to calm her down and ascertain her identity. One of the unit officials, popularly known as Alhaji Also, said the girl narrated a disturbing account of how she was allegedly brought to the market by her mother and left behind.

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‎According to him, Subomi claimed that her mother, Mrs. Tawakalitu Dasola Bashiru, dropped her at the location and drove away. The young girl reportedly told sympathisers that she could not understand why such a thing had happened, insisting that she had done nothing wrong to deserve such treatment. Witnesses said her emotional state moved many people at the market, with some struggling to hold back tears as she recounted her ordeal.

‎Speaking on the development, Subomi's father who is a civil servant officer in Oyo State, expressed shock and disappointment over the incident. He disclosed that there had been a long-standing dispute between him and his estranged wife, who had earlier left their matrimonial home. According to him, she allegedly moved out with some household valuables and a sum of money he had from family property proceeds

‎The father further stated that the matter had previously been reported to the SCID DIS Gender .handle the case. in  Iyaganku, but alleged that the case did not receive the attention he expected. He described the latest incident involving their daughter as deeply troubling and said he never imagined that a child would become caught in the middle of an ongoing disagreement between parents.

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‎While fighting back emotions, he stressed that children should never be used as tools in family disputes, urging parents to place the welfare and emotional well-being of their children above personal differences. He said he was bringing the matter to public attention to serve as a warning and deterrent to others, emphasizing that every child deserves love, protection and care.

‎The distraught father added that the incident would be formally reported to the nearest police station for investigation, expressing hope that justice would be done and that his daughter would receive the support and protection she deserves.

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‎The incident has sparked concern among residents and traders within the Agbaje Market community, many of whom have called for greater awareness on child welfare and the responsibilities of parents. As the matter unfolds, members of the public continue to express sympathy for the young girl whose tears at a busy marketplace have become a painful reminder of the impact family disputes can have on innocent children.

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Allansmith Effect: Lafia City Stadium Bounces Back, Set to Host Nasarawa United’s League Campaign ‎

LAFIA — The Lafia City Stadium is set for a major facelift as the Nasarawa State Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Jibril Ibrahim Abdullahi, on Tuesday inspected the ongoing installation of artificial turf and other renovation works at the facility.

‎The inspection came ahead of Governor Abdullahi Sule’s final visit to the stadium and was aimed at assessing the progress of work and ensuring that the facility meets the required quality and technical standards before its official handover.

‎Jibril, who was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Dr. Stephen Iliya Sasetu, and the Director of Finance and Accounts, Tanko Musa ‘Atakura’, expressed satisfaction with the pace and quality of work at the stadium.

‎The Commissioner said the project was a clear demonstration of the Sule administration’s commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and the provision of modern sporting infrastructure across Nasarawa State.

‎He disclosed that following the completion and formal handover of the facility, Nasarawa State’s premier men’s and women’s football clubs, Nasarawa United FC and Nasarawa Amazons FC, would use the stadium as their home ground for league matches.

‎The development is particularly significant for Nasarawa United, who are expected to host Bendel Insurance in a Nigeria Premier Football League Matchday Two fixture at the refurbished Lafia City Stadium.

‎Meanwhile, the contractor handling the project, Alansmith Nigeria Limited, has assured the state government that the stadium will be ready for handover by Thursday, September 3, 2026.

‎Speaking on behalf of the Chief Executive, of the company , Joshua Adamu, Engineer Joshua Olaitan said the artificial turf on the main football pitch had been completely installed and completed.

He assured the Ministry’s delegation that the outstanding works would be completed on Wednesday, September 2, paving the way for the official handover the following day.

‎The renovation is expected to provide a modern and conducive home ground for Nasarawa’s top football clubs while boosting the state’s capacity to host competitive football fixtures and further advance grassroots and professional sports development.

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Adamasingba Stadium: Allansmith Sports Construction Offers Roadmap for Rehabilitation, Return to CAF Standard

Abuja: Allansmith Sports Construction Company has expressed its readiness to provide lasting solutions to the challenges facing sports infrastructure development in Nigeria, using modern construction expertise and international standards to revive and transform sporting facilities across the country.

The company’s Chief Executive Officer, Joshua Adamu, stated that Allansmith has become a household name in the development and construction of sports facilities, with the capacity to deliver world-class projects that meet global standards.

Adamu made this known while reacting to concerns over the declining state of some major sporting facilities in Nigeria, particularly the historic Adamasingba Stadium in Oyo State, which was recently reported to have fallen short of the standards required for hosting CAF-approved matches due to deteriorating facilities.

He noted that the situation of sporting facilities across the country requires urgent attention, stressing that proper investment in sports infrastructure is critical to the growth of football and other sporting activities in Nigeria.

According to him, Allansmith Sports Construction Company is positioned to partner with governments, sports organisations and private investors to rehabilitate existing facilities and construct new ones that will enhance sporting development.

“Sports development cannot thrive without quality infrastructure. Stadiums and sporting facilities must be built and maintained to meet international standards. Allansmith is ready to provide the needed expertise and solutions to transform sports facilities across Nigeria,” Adamu said.

He explained that modern sporting facilities go beyond football pitches, adding that they require proper seating arrangements, drainage systems, lighting, training grounds, medical facilities, security infrastructure and other essential components that meet international requirements.

Adamu further emphasised that Oyo State, with its rich sporting history and passionate supporters, deserves facilities that reflect its status as one of Nigeria’s leading states in sports development.

He assured that Allansmith Sports Construction Company remains committed to supporting the growth of sports in Nigeria through innovative construction solutions, quality delivery and professional expertise.

He called on stakeholders in the sports sector to embrace partnerships that will help restore the glory of Nigerian sporting facilities and create opportunities for young talents to thrive.