Category: Grassroot Sports

  • Onwa D’ZEMBA 2025: Football Fever Grips Akwa On December 29.

    Onwa D’ZEMBA 2025: Football Fever Grips Akwa On December 29.

    By Christian ABURIME

    Ndị Anambra, it is time to go for goals! The Christmas glow is still fresh, as the festive fire in Ọnwa Dezemba is burning hotter than ever! On December 29 at 2pm, the excitement goes to the field where we celebrate our passion for sporting excellence with a perfect post-Christmas Novelty Match right at Awka Township Stadium.

    This friendly will be a vibrant, high-octane football celebration that reminds us why the beautiful game holds a special place in every Anambra heart.

    Just imagine the stadium coming alive with the spectacular: supporters getting worked up, families spread across the stands, kids perched on shoulders chanting team names, and the unmistakable buzz of anticipation before the whistle blows. Players, from local legends to everyday stars who still lace up their boots, will bring skill, flair, and friendly rivalry to the pitch.

    Expect dazzling dribbles, thunderous shots, cheeky skills, last-minute saves, and maybe even a few goals that will have the crowd erupting in cheers. It is the kind of match where laughter mixes with roars, where banter flows as freely as the goals, and where everyone leaves with a smile, win or lose.

    In the middle of this thrilling festive season, the Novelty Match serves a deeper purpose. It is meant to be a refreshing burst of activity after days of feasting and family gatherings, a chance to shake off the Christmas indulgence, get the blood pumping, and step into the coming New Year feeling fit, energised, and ready to conquer.

    Spectators will get front-row entertainment: the thrill of live action, the drama of every tackle, the suspense of every attack, and the shared joy of community coming together under one roof. For participants, it is more than fun; it will be a healthy, spirited way to stay active, build camaraderie, and carry that winning Anambra spirit into 2026.

    Our sport-loving Governor himself, Professor Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, has made sure the venue will be secure, comfortable, and ready for maximum enjoyment. So, grab your jersey, bring your crew, wear sunshades, and come early to catch the warm-up vibes.

    Whether you are cheering from the stands, coaching from the sidelines, or just soaking in the atmosphere, this is your moment to feel the pulse of Anambra at its most electric.

    In the end, this football game is another celebration of being alive, and staying united and resilient.

    Let the Novelty Match be the highlight that keeps the Ọnwa D’zemba fire roaring strong! At Awka Township Stadium, December 29, 2pm, come feel the vibe!

  • Ward A2 Reigns Supreme In Odi Olowo/Ojuwoye Sports Fiesta Football Tournament.

    Ward A2 Reigns Supreme In Odi Olowo/Ojuwoye Sports Fiesta Football Tournament.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The grand finale of the 2025 Odi-Olow/Ojuwoye Sports Fiesta Season 4, was a thrilling display of sportsmanship and entertainment, with Ward A2 emerging victorious against Ward A1 with a 4:2 win in a thrilling final.

    The fiesta which featured games like Video game,Ayo olopon,Draught,Card game,Table tennis,Snooker,boxing.and special sports for PWD.

    The football match which was the climax of the tournament was played at the constructed modern 5 A-side football pitch in Nusara-Ud-Deen School,Ayantuga in Odi Olowo Ojuwoye LCDA.

     

    With close to One thousand spectators gathering at the mini stadium for the closing ceremony grand finale, the match between Ward A2 and Ward A1 delivered a pulsating and entertaining event that was similar to what’s obtainable in an  European UEFA Champions League final with Ward A2’s technical prowess shine through, with the goal keeper Majedokunmin scoring the first goal in the 15mins into the first half.

    The match was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams trading goals in the first half to end 2-2.  The goalkeepers’ early strikes had the crowd on the edge of their seats, foreshadowing a match filled with goals and drama.

    Damilola from Ward A2 scored the second goal, while Michael Monday equalized, thereby  setting the tone for an exciting second half.

    In the second half, Ward A2 dominated the match scoring two unanswered goals to secure the victory with Damilola Idowu scoring his second goal and breaking the deadlock in the second half with a brilliant double-dribble strike.Bashorun Toheeb extended the lead with another goal due to a defensive error led by the goal keeper

    With the referees Pelumi and Wahab blowing the final whistle at around 4pm,fans of the luckiest Ward A2 took over the field in jubilation of their team’s triumph to rejoice with the players and officials.

    Investigator news reports that the Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Sports Fiesta Season 4 reached its thrilling conclusion with the other games already decided on Tuesday 16, December 2025 at the Council Secretariat.

    Games Decided:

    Video game was between Mutiu from (Ward C2) and Olamide Paul (Ward B1),where Mutiu was defeated by Olamide Paul two consecutive times by 2:0

    Draught:Israel Obi(Ward C1A) and Pa Olaoye (Ward C1B) and the winner was Israel Bassey

    Other Winners are Ademola Olasunkanmi(Ward B2,Ayo Olopon),Oluwatosin Seydu(Ward C3 took the second position),Luqman Tunde (Ward B1, Snooker) and Wasiu Abisoye of (Ward C2 took the second position).

    In the 52 Card game,Olayiwola Jimoh of 12 Barrister Club(Ward A2) emerge as the winner, while Ajibade Funso Hammed of Aletile and Mr Basheer took the second and third position.

    The Boxing category:

    30kg Category –Kaleed Adio(First), Michael Fatokun(second position)

    47kg Category —Bolarinwa Emmanuel (First),Kilanko Koyum(second position)

    86kg Category —Micheal Olomitutu (First), Tunde Taofik(second position).

    Other dignitaries who joined the Chairman in presenting medals and cup to the winners in various categories and the winners of the football tournament at the grand finale included his Vice Chairman,the leader of the house and other Councilors.

     

     

     

     

     

  • Rainbow FC Triumph In Ailegun Youth Football Competition,Win TAT FC 1: 0

    Rainbow FC Triumph In Ailegun Youth Football Competition,Win TAT FC 1: 0

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Ejigbo, Nigeria – In a nail-biting final,Rainbow FC on Sunday 14, December 2025,emerged victorious in the Ailegun Youth Football Competition,defeating TAT FC 1-0 in a match that had spectators on the edge of their seats.

    The tournament, organized by Councilor representing Ailegun ward,Hon Ifatumise Adedoyin Adefioye, brought together young talents from across the ward showcasing their skills and sportsmanship.

    The Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA,Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo who was ably represented by one of his aide, Alhaji Taiwo Rahman and Hon Ogunleye Abuga, praised the councilor for her commitment to youth development and sports, stating that the competition aligned with his administration’s seven-point agenda of promoting education with sports and youth engagement

    Aare TAT in his remarks stated that he is thrilled to see the youths excel in sports and other areas of endeavor.

    He noted that the tournament organized by Hon Ifatumise has showcased the immense talent and potential of the young people,and he is committed to continuing to support and promote youth development in Ejigbo.

    “As a government, we believe that sports can be a powerful tool for social change and economic empowerment, and we will continue to invest in initiatives that promote youth engagement and sports development.”

    “I congratulate Rainbow FC  and TAT FC for getting to the final, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. I also commend Councilor Adefioye for her dedication to youth development and her vision for a brighter future for our young people.” he said

    The councilor, Hon Ifatumise Adedoyin Adefioye, described the tournament as “epic” and stressed the need to continue engaging youths through sports.

    She thanked the local organizers committee, led by Prince Arowooye Abdulrahman, for putting up a good game.

    Lending his voice,the Councilor representing Aigbaika ward, Hon Taiwo Idowu who is among the team that represented the Executive Chairman described the event as “really fantastic and remarkable, thanked the Councilor for Ailegun ward for intervening in sport development, praying that God will continue to strengthen her to do more for the youths of Ailegun.

    Hon Idowu opined that such competition would be replicated in his ward after the Chairman’s cup slated for January 2026.

    Also,the Ward Chairman for Ailegun ward, Prince Babatunde Adefioye said that the competition was designed to support the well-being and engagement of the youths despite socio-economic challenges.

    “This is a tactical and strategic way of diverting the attention of our young people away from wrongdoings. So, this is an opportunity to actually unleash the inherent potential in our young people.

    “There’s no better way, or better avenue, to catch them young, to get the best talent out, than in competitions like this,”Prince Babatunde said.

    He appreciated the Councilor for following the path of the Executive Chairman in youth development, while urging the players to strive hard for a better future.

    Speaking with newsmen after the first half,Aare TAT newsmen,noted that he had been following the matches and display of skills of the players as the nature of his job didn’t allow him to participate physically.

    “We have discovered a lot of talents from the blow of the first whistle in this tournament. We are going to have more talents today ”

    “I congratulate the winners to be and the runner up for their sportsmanship and show of professionalism.

    “My special commendation also goes to the match officials and supporters of the teams for comporting themselves in a dignifying manner throughout the competition regardless the outcome of each match”

    Investigator news reports that the competition saw several talented players, with Rainbow FC’s jersey number 4 scoring the only goal of the match in the 28th minute.

    A large turnout of sports enthusiasts  within and outside Ailegun ward gathered at Pink Street as the match delivered a pulsating and entertaining event that was similar to what’s obtainable in an European UEFA Champions League final.

    TAT FC tried to stage a comeback in the second half but was thwarted by the Rainbow FC defense.

     

    The organizers presented cash prizes to the winners, including N200,000 to Rainbow FC, N100,000 to TAT FC, and N50,000 to Sir Cosmos, who took third place.

    Speaking with newsmen after the competition,Hon Adedoyin Adefioye described the tournament as an ‘epic one’, while stressing the need to keep engaging the youth.

    She thanked the local organizers committee (LOC) led by Prince Arowooye Abdulrahman for putting up a good game.

     

    The Local Organizing Committee Chairman Prince Arowooye Abdulrahman stated that the essence of the football youth tournament is to bring the youths together and showcase their skills and expressing themselves for future endeavours.

    He applauded the youthful councilor for recognizing the importance of the youths in the ward, noting that the Councilor deem it fit in giving the youths a voice through sports and other youth engagement.

    Prince Abdulramah used the occasion to appreciate the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA,Aare TAT for his love, passion and programs for the youths of Ailegun ward and Ejigbo LCDA in general.

    With the referee, Olaleye Taoyyib blowing the final whistle at around 4:30pm, fans of the luckiest team of the day – Rainbow FC took over the field in jubilation of their team’s triumph to rejoice with the players and team officials.

    The third-place match was given to Sir Cosmos following the unruly behavior of Olusumande during with TAT FC in the Semi final game and were disqualified by the organizers.

    Investigator news gathered that during the Semi final, Rainbow FC defeated Sir Cosmas by 5:1, while TAT defeated Olusumande by 1:0.

    The Coach of the Rainbow FC, said that the victory was not a surprise as the team had been on a winning streak even outside the local government.

    The Coach of TAT FC said, “Nothing went wrong with our side, we lost to a better tactical team. Their tactics and cohesion are more than our own.”

    The event was hailed as a huge success, with attendees praising the organizers for promoting youth development and sports in the local government.

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Ejigbo LCDA: Councilor Adedoyin Kicks Off Ailegun Football Youth Tournament In Grand Style.

    Ejigbo LCDA: Councilor Adedoyin Kicks Off Ailegun Football Youth Tournament In Grand Style.

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    The Councilor representing Ailegun Ward in Ejigbo LCDA,Hon Ifatumise  Adedoyin Adefioye, has kicked off year 2025 edition of Ailegun Football Youth Tournament in style.

    The Tournament which commenced on Sunday 7, November 2025,was held at the back of Little land school,Pink Street,Ejigbo and would end on Sunday 14, November 2025.

    Hon Ifatumise Adefioye,accompanied by the Ward Chairman, Prince Babatunde Adefioye,political leaders and other notable personalities in Ailegun ward declared open the tournament and also performed the ceremonial kicked off the ball, to signal the formal commencement of the football competition.

    The football teams, participating in the fiesta, representing the communities in Ailegun ward were gallantly showcased at the ceremony

    The Councilor, while welcoming people into the venue expressed his delight to God for giving the grace to achieve the programme.She as well appreciated the crowd for being part of the tournament despite the rainfall, assuring that the tournament will be classy and entertaining event like no other one.

    Adefioye expressed overwhelming joy over the commencement of the Football Cup Fiesta and said it was in commemoration of her 100 days in office and realization of one of her campaign promises to the youths of the area.

    She added that the event will pave way not only for bonding and identifying winners at the end, but also give a chance to showcase the individual and collective talents of the participants and teaches us to work in harmony.

    “The football tournament is indeed a component of one of our programs as we promised to bring about notable youth development initiatives and empowerment through my effort and that of the Executive Chairman. It gives me great satisfaction that today, as your Councilor,we are walking the talk.

    “Apart from the peace, unity, togetherness and entertainment value of sporting activities such as football tournaments, we cannot overemphasize the place of Sports development in the empowerment of our teeming youths.

    Hon Adedoyin reiterated that, “the event will serve as another way to engage and empower the youths who are talented, motivated and committed to being good Ambassadors of our dear Local Government.”

    She further, applauded the Executive Chairman of Ejigbo LCDA,Aare Taoheed Adebayo Taiwo (TAT)for trying to accommodate the youths in everything he does, noting that the football tournament will go a long way in unifying the youths of the Ailegun Ward.

    “We want to unite the youths through sports because football attracts unity and togetherness. Also for the youths to know that the government is with them and he is carrying everyone along and we over here we are using this so as to mark our 100 days in office as well as that of the Executive Chairman.”

    Speaking with newsmen,a member of the Local Organizing Committee,Comrade Godwin Oyem Aka Olurun Oba commended the Councilor representing Ailegun ward,Hon Ifatumise Adefioye for giving the youths of Ailegun ward a voice, noting that the competition which is a means of catching them young in the area of sports will go a long way in unifying the youths of Ailegun Ward.

    ” The essence of the event is all about bringing the youths of Ailegun ward together so as to have a better future ahead.” he said

    Lending his voice, the Ward Chairman, Prince Babatunde Adefioye noted that the youth football tournament is a good idea and a fantastic beginning for the Councilor representing Ailegun ward.

    He said,”Hon Ifatumise Adedoyin has done well especially in her first 100 days in office as she has been able to bring the youths together through this football tournament and it will also expose the youths to the outside world ”

    Prince Babatunde went further to urge other councilors to emulate the Councilor representing Ailegun ward in coming up programs that will affect the youths positively.

    When newsmen spoke with Hon Ifatumise Adedoyin Adefioye,she opined that the 1st Place winner of the tournament would go home with a cash prize of Two Hundred Thousand (200,000)while the 2nd place and third place winners would be given One Hundred Thousand N100, 000) and Fifty Thousand Naira (50,000) respectively.

    The young and vibrant Councilor urge the participating to maintain peace and avoid any form of violence throughout the period of this competition.

    “We cannot achieve anything in an atmosphere of rancour, rather peace and tranquility is veritable for success to be accomplished.”

    “Let me again, admonish the players, against the use of enhancement drugs or any form of substance, geared towards enhancement of your performance throughout the period of the tournament. God has endowed us with natural stamina and skills and the match officials are out to identify these natural endowments, as major attributes for the talent hunt in this competition,”

    While commending the Local Organizing Committee headed by Mr Abdulramah for the impressive planning of the sporting event, Hon Ifatumise charged match officials to be fair, transparent and impartial in their judgements, even as he warned against favoritism and nepotism.

    The opening match was played between Adefioye FC and Sir Cosmas FC which was won by Sir Cosmos FC by 2 goals to 1(penalty) after a 1-1  draw.

    During the match,Sir Cosmas FC drew the first blood in the 8mins of the match through number 5 and Adefioye FC came back in the 27 mins with an equalizer through jersey number 55.

    In other fixtures

    NEXTDOOR FC—TAT FC ——— 0-1

    OLUSUNMADE FC—EASYPEDIA FC —— 1-0

    RAINBOW FC — AJOMALE FC—— 4-1.

    Investigator news reports that Sir Cosmas FC, TAT FC,Olusunmade FC, Rainbow FC has qualified into the Semi final which would be decided on Friday 12, November 2025.

  • Jakande Leads Fitness Walk To Launch Sport Fiesta Season 4.

    Jakande Leads Fitness Walk To Launch Sport Fiesta Season 4.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    Walking has been identified medically and socially as the best, least expensive and most broadly acceptable form of physical activities as it is rarely associated with any injury and easily adopted by people of all ages.

    With an understanding of the importance of healthy living and community bonding,Hon. Seyi Jakande, the Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), has kicked off the 4th edition of the Sport Fiesta with a walkathon, themed “Awareness Road Walk for Sustainable Fitness” on Saturday 22, November 2025.

    The event which started from the council premises is aimed to promote youth development, grassroots empowerment, and sustainable community building through sports.

    The exercise witnessed enthusiastic participation with a large turnout of both young and old. While the elderly merely walked within their strides to keep up with the procession, the young persons took a delight in outpacing themselves with some jogging.

    Investigator news reports that the exercise started from the council premises to Town Planning Way, Industrial Avenue, Bishop Street, Coker Road, Ilupeju Traffic Light, Oyewole Street, Majolate/Kayode Street, Ogunmokun Bridge, Abolade Street, Abiodun Street, Post Office Road, Agege Motor Road, Muibi Street, ending at Ayatunga Street.

    Speaking after the walk fitness,Hon Jakande stated that emphasised the importance of maintaining physical and mental well-being to ensure the level of fitness of the participants in the season 4 edition of the sports fiesta and to encourage daily exercise to the people of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye so as to keep their body healthy.

    “Our health is the bedrock of our performance. This walk exercise not only enhances our physical fitness but also strengthens bonding as a community.It a process where all the participants participates in this exercise so as to ensure their level of fitness and encourage in daily exercise to keep their body healthy ” he said.

    Jakande noted that walking helps improve immunity and physical health, noting that Odi Olowo/ Ojuwoye LCDA is united in sports as it encourages unity and peace to the people of the community. He urged youths to participate, showcasing their passion, discipline, and unity.

    “Sports is a means where you connect everyone together because sports has one language, which is unity and it brings everyone together” he stated.

    The Community Development Committee chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye, Otunba Adebayo Adekunle applauded the chairman for sustaining the sports fiesta as the exercise promotes unity and brings governance closer to the people.

    The Chairman who is over 70 years of age stated that he decided to embark on the walk exercise because it will keep him in shape, while advising other individuals to always have regular exercise so as to avoid being ageing.

    One of the information officers,Miss Yetunde Akinyemi stated that this year’s event would be a fantastic one as the Chairman inculcated special children/people living with disabilities into this year’s sports fiesta.

    Yetunde went further to state that the event which would simultaneously in the nine wards would produce one each for each game to compete at the local government level.

    “This year’s event is quite unique and different because people living with disabilities are part of this year’s program.

    “Also,we are going to have preliminaries in all the ward unlike the previous one where everyone assembled at the local government.At the end of the preliminary stage,each ward would give us a representative to view at the local government level”she stated.

    She encouraged all participants to put in their best so as to win the prize”it is not just a game but it is going to be scouting for talents and individuals to discover their skills.” She submitted.

    Lending his voice,the Vice President, National Association of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Tertiary Students (NAOTS), Comrade Collins Oladipupo appreciated Hon Seyi Jakande for continuing the sports fiesta saying that it means a lot to the youths because it shows inclusiveness and awareness of the local government about the youths.

    He noted that the event would bring about peace, togetherness and ensure that the youths of Odi-Olowo Ojuwoye erase their mindset away from drugs and other social vices.

    Read Also:Jakande Launches Season 4 Sport Fiesta With ₦25m Grand Prize.

     

    Investigator news gathered that the Sport Fiesta will feature various games, including 5-a-side soccer, boxing, draught, table tennis, and snooker, with a grand prize of ₦25 million as Hon.Jakande has  emphasized that the event is not just about sports, but about building a future where youths have platforms to grow, excel, and succeed.

    Highlight of the event was Hon Seyi Jakande taking the first position through cutting of the tape at the finish line.

  • Jakande Launches Season 4 Sport Fiesta With ₦25m Grand Prize.

    Jakande Launches Season 4 Sport Fiesta With ₦25m Grand Prize.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Executive Chairman of Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Seyi Lawal Jakande, has unveiled the 4th edition of the Sport Fiesta, themed “Step to Sustainability”.

    The event, scheduled to take place in the last month of the year, aims to promote youth development, grassroots empowerment, and sustainable community building through sports.

    Addressing a press conference,Jakande stated that the Sport Fiesta will feature 5-a-side soccer, boxing, draught, table tennis, 52 card game, video game, and snooker, with a grand prize of ₦25 million.

    According to him,the competition will be conducted in each of the nine wards, with local qualifiers identifying outstanding talents for the LCDA grand finale.

    “We have gathered to officially unveil the 4th Edition of our annual Sport Fiesta, which highlight its new structure,announce the grand prize, and outline how this initiative ties into our broader vision of empowering youths, strengthening community unity and promoting sustainable talent development and other activities that will commence in the last month of the year.”

    Jakande emphasized that the event is not just about sports, but about building a future where youths have platforms to grow, excel, and succeed. He urged youths to participate, showcasing their passion, discipline, and unity.

    “This event is not just about sports, it is about building a future where our youths have platforms to grow, excel and succeed. Since I assumed office on 28 July,our administration has worked tirelessly to strengthen the foundations of growth and deliver impactful programs across all wards.”he said

    He noted that the essence of the sports fiesta is to promote youth development, grassroots empowerment, and sustainable community building through sports.

    The Chairman opined that the LCDA has also lined up other activities, including a subsidized sale of chicken, quiz, and debate, and bursary for indigenous tertiary students with good CGPA.

    Hon Jakande went further to highlight some of the achievements recorded by his administration in terms of infrastructure, health, education, and youth empowerment, including the rehabilitation of roads, construction of a primary healthcare centre, and introduction of a back-to-school initiative.

    “These modest achievements show our dedication to repairing,rebuilding, and reinvesting in the lives of our people and today’s Sport Fiesta strengthens that momentum.”he stated

    Investigator news gathered that the Sport Fiesta is expected to promote community bonding, talent discovery, and sustainable youth development, aligning with the administration’s vision of building a legacy that future generations will inherit and expand

     

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Fidelity Bank Boosts Gymnastics Development With Gymfest Championship 2.0 Sponsorship

    Fidelity Bank Boosts Gymnastics Development With Gymfest Championship 2.0 Sponsorship

    Emmanuel lkpeama

    Leading financial institution, Fidelity Bank Plc, has reiterated its commitment to youth empowerment by serving as the headline sponsor of Gymfest Championship 2.0.

    The competition, which held in Lagos over the weekend, drew remarkable participation from children aged 3 to 12years who competed across levels 1 through 7., Gymfest 2.0 brought together gymnasts, parents, clubs, schools, and sponsors, all united by a shared vision to nurture young gymnastic talent across the country.

    Speaking at the event, Divisional Head, Brand and Communications, Fidelity Bank Plc, Dr Meksley Nwagboh, explained that the support for gymnastics is part of the bank’s broader vision to invest in platforms that empower young Nigerians to unlock their full potential and pursue greatness with intention.

    “At Fidelity Bank, we believe sports are a powerful tool for transformation. They instill discipline, sharpen focus, and foster teamwork; qualities that shape character and build strong communities. These same values drive innovation, leadership, and national development.

    “As headline sponsor of Gymfest, we are proud to support an initiative that promotes physical excellence, strengthens community bonds, and inspires national pride.

    Gymfest is more than a competition; it motivates children to set ambitious goals and pursue them with dedication and effort,” he said.

    Also speaking at the event, Founder, Tee Tumblers Gymnastics Club and Co-founder, Gymfest Championship, Yoyin Akpose, outlined the long-term vision of the initiative as one that seeks to build a thriving community of children, parents, schools, clubs, and sponsors united by a shared passion for gymnastics.

    Akpose stated that, “Our aim is to make gymnastics accessible to every child with a dream, creating fully equipped centers that provide training opportunities for all levels, from Surulere to Ikorodu, Ikeja, Apapa, and beyond.”

    “GYMFEST is changing the narrative by offering a structured platform for talent development, international exposure, and professional training,” Akpose added.

    One of the event’s highlights was the impressive performance of Oluwatoni Pitan, who emerged as the winner and overall best gymnast in the Level 2 Vault category.

    Expressing her excitement, she said,“I feel very excited because I didn’t even expect this at all. This is my first Level 2 competition, and it took me three weeks of preparation.

    I encourage other female gymnasts to work hard and be consistent, you never know when your opportunity will come.”

    Oluwatoni also expressed her gratitude to Fidelity Bank, the organisers, and her parents for the opportunity to showcase her talents and pursue her dreams as a young athlete.

    Through strategic partnerships for initiatives like GYMFEST, Fidelity Bank continues to demonstrate its dedication to empowering the next generation, driving positive change, and fostering excellence through sports development in Nigeria.

    Investigator news reports that fidelity bank is ranked among the best banks in Nigeria, Fidelity Bank Plc is a full-fledged Commercial Deposit Money Bank serving over 9.1 million customers through digital banking channels, its 255 business offices in Nigeria and United Kingdom subsidiary, FidBank UK Limited.

    The Bank is a recipient of multiple local and international Awards, including the 2024 Excellence in Digital Transformation & MSME Banking Award by BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards; the 2024 Most Innovative Mobile Banking Application award for its Fidelity Mobile App by Global Business Outlook, and the 2024 Most Innovative Investment Banking Service Provider award by Global Brands Magazine.

    Additionally, the Bank was recognized as the Best Bank for SMEs in Nigeria by the Euromoney Awards for Excellence and as the Export Financing Bank of the Year by the BusinessDay Banks and Financial Institutions (BAFI) Awards.

  • Sanwo-Olu Aide, Atewogboye Wins National Award for Grassroots Sports Development.

    Sanwo-Olu Aide, Atewogboye Wins National Award for Grassroots Sports Development.

    Emmanuel lkpeama 

    The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Lagos State on Grassroot Sports Development,Hon Adebanji Adeoye Atewogboye,has been recognized for his outstanding contributions to grassroots sports development in Lagos State.

    He was honored with the “Most National Ethnic Grassroots Sports Advocate of the Year 2025” award at the National Ethnics and Values Awards in Abuja

    This prestigious award recognizes his outstanding contributions to promoting grassroots sports development and ethnic values, aligning with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and reflects Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to empowering youth and promoting sports excellence in Lagos State.

    Investigator news reports that under the governor’s leadership, Lagos State has invested significantly in sports infrastructure and grassroots initiatives, identifying and nurturing young talents across the region.

    In addition to the award,Hon Atewogboye was conferred with an Honorary Fellowship as a Fellow of the Institute of Management Leadership and Productivity Development (FIMLPD), further recognizing his dedication and passion for grassroots sports development and leadership.

    It will be recalled that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s efforts in promoting grassroots sports development in Lagos State have been recognized with several awards, including “Governor of the Year in Infrastructural Development” and “Man of the Year.”

    Speaking with newsmen after the award presentation,Hon Atewogboye dedicated the award to Governor Sanwo-Olu for the opportunity to serve in his administration and enhance the potentials in youth development.

    Investigator news gathered that Atewogboye’s achievement is a testament to his commitment to excellence and will likely inspire other sports advocates and enthusiasts in the state,as he embarked on different grassroot programs which have reduced drastically the social vices among the young ones,discovering raw talents that has brought laurels to the Lagos State government.

     

     

     

  • Lagos State Govt’s Grassroots Sports Programme Empowers 100 Youths.

    Lagos State Govt’s Grassroots Sports Programme Empowers 100 Youths.

    Emmanuel Clement 

    The Lagos State Government’s Grassroots Sports Development programme has successfully trained and evaluated 100 youths in a recent summer camp.

    The programme was aimed to identify and nurture young sporting talents in the state.

    Investigator news reports that the programme also provides a platform for young people to develop sporting skills, build confidence, and become better citizens as discussion are underway to collaborate with international partners to further develop the initiative.

    The summer camp, which brought together 100 youths from different parts of the state, was a resounding success, with participants showing significant improvement in their sporting abilities.

    According to Mr Atewogboye Adebanji, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Grassroots Sports Development,he said that Governor Sanwo-Olu’s commitment to developing grassroots sports is evident in the programme’s investment and success.

    He noted that with international partnerships on the horizon, the programme is poised to provide more opportunities for Lagos youths to excel in sports.

    “We are excited about the progress we’ve made so far, and we’re looking forward to taking our programme to the next level through partnerships with local and international organizations.”

    “This will not only enhance the skills of our youths but also provide them with global exposure and opportunities.”he said.

    Investigator news gathered Hon Atewogboye through the office of the Lagos State Grassroot Sports has reiterated its commitment to propagating grassroots sports development, stressing that the state government would continuously bring out initiatives that will improve sports and develop new talents across board.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • Jakande Shines At The International Youth Games Novelty Match

    Jakande Shines At The International Youth Games Novelty Match

    Emmanuel Clement 

    Hon. Seyi Jakande, the Executive Chairman of Odì-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA, participated in the International Youth Games organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Youth and Social Development on Saturday, September 13,2025.

    This event was a highlight of a week-long celebration in honor of the annual International Youth Day.

    The games were held at the Jide Sanwo-Olu Football Arena, situated within Ilupeju Senior Secondary School in the Odì-Olowo/Ojuwoye LCDA.

    Participants engaged in a variety of competitions, including Table Tennis, Chess, Card Games, and Soccer.

    Investigator news reports that a particularly thrilling segment of the day was the Novelty Match, where Hon. Jakande, alongside Hon. Commissioner Mobolaji Ogunlende and the Youth Administrator Team, faced off against the Youth Council Team, led by Engr. Ibrahim Adigun.

    After an exhilarating match that ended 3-3 in regular time, the Youth Administrators emerged victorious in the ensuing penalty shootout.

    The Council Chairman showcased his football skills again, impressing the audience as he dribbled past his opponents.

    He provided an assist for one goal and then scored an equalizer, leading to a penalty shootout.

    Jakande also converted the final penalty, securing victory for his team and earning the title of Man of the Match.

    At the event, Hon. Mobolaji Ogunlende, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, expressed his satisfaction with the state-of-the-art facilities at Ilupeju Secondary School, highlighting their significance as a unique asset for Odì-Olowo/Ojuwoye and Lagos State.

    He also commended his team for their cooperation throughout the week’s activities.

    In his remarks, Jakande expressed gratitude to Hon. Ogunlende and Permanent Secretary Pharm Toyin Oke Osanyintolu for selecting his community to host the Grand Finale of the Novelty Match.

    Com. Ibrahim Adigun, Chairman of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), acknowledged the presence of dignitaries at the event, including various Special Advisers and Directors from the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, as well as SSA to the governor on Youth Mobilization, Hon. Opeyemi Oladimeji (Ope Eko), and SSA to the Governor on Social Development, Hon. Olamilekan Biliaminu Ọba, along with directors from the Ministry and local branches of the Youth Council.