Ekiti Referees Appreciate Governor Oyebanji’s Sports Development Works
The Chairman of the Ekiti State Football Referees Association, Kayode Ayodele Onilearo, has commended Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji for what he described as remarkable investments in sports development, noting that the administration’s interventions are positively impacting not only athletes but also officials and other stakeholders within the sporting ecosystem.
Onilearo said the governor’s commitment to sports infrastructure development, particularly the refurbishment of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti and the Ikole Township Stadium, has created a conducive environment for more competitions and sporting activities across the state.
According to him, the improved facilities have provided young referees and referees-in-training with regular opportunities to gain practical experience, thereby accelerating their development and improving officiating standards.
“Sports development is bigger than players alone. When facilities are available and competitions become regular, referees, coaches, administrators and other stakeholders also benefit. What we are witnessing in Ekiti today is the growth of an entire sports ecosystem,” he said.
The referees’ chairman pointed to the recent achievement of Samuel Progress, an Ekiti referee who emerged as the best official in the female category at the FIFA Referees Development Course, as evidence that the state’s sports reforms are already producing results.
According to him, the feat demonstrates that Ekiti is now creating an environment capable of producing world-class sports officials and professionals.
Onilearo also praised the Technical Advisor on Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, for her dedication to implementing the governor’s vision for the sector, noting that the progress being recorded across various sporting disciplines reflects effective leadership and coordination.
He expressed optimism that with sustained government support and continued investment in sports infrastructure and human capital development, Ekiti State is well positioned to become a major sports hub and a breeding ground for athletes and officials capable of excelling on national and international stages.
“We appreciate Governor Oyebanji for his commitment to sports development and for creating opportunities that are helping young people and sports professionals realize their potential. The future of sports in Ekiti is undoubtedly bright,” Onilearo stated.
Post Comment