ABEOKUTA–The Asiwaju of Orile Imo in Obafemi Owode Local Government, Ogun State, Chief Olalekan Joseph, has reaffirmed his commitment to community development and youth empowerment through sporting events.
He stated this during a football tournament held to commemorate his birthday ceremony, held at the Orile Imo high school.
Chief Olalekan while speaking with newsmen stated that the grassroots event is aimed to discover and nurture budding football talents in the community, for country’s national teams
He added that his inspiration for hosting the tournament was drawn from Governor Dapo Abiodun’s giant strides in sports development, particularly the successful hosting of the national sports festival held in Ogun State earlier in the year.
“I thank God and I thank His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun. Earlier this year, the Governor organized a national sports festival in Ogun State, and that’s where I drew my inspiration.
“I believe that the youths are the leaders of tomorrow, and Orile Imo is blessed with great football talents,” he said
As part of other activities to mark his birthday, Chief Olalekan stated that he intend to commission several projects, which includes lock-up shops, the development of Laleck Estate, Bara, Orile Imo, and empowerment schemes for artisans, traders, and widows.
He noted that these projects reflects his vision for the holistic development of the community
Meanwhile, the Community youth leader, Chief Jimoh Olorunsogo, lauded the initiative, describing the Chief Olalekan as a man whose actions speak louder than words.
“He has been organising football tournaments for a very long time, and we are very happy with it. He takes care of widows and empowers people with working tools”, he said.
Chief Omolade Sosanya, the Baale of Odofin, highlighted his sustained support for football tournaments and empowerment initiatives, describing him as “a true pillar of progress in Orile imo.
