By: Manoah Kikekon
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| Oyefolu Ojelabi |
BADAGRY, LAGOS STATE — In a major move to boost sports infrastructure and regional harmony, the Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Lagos State, Hon. Cornelius Oyefolu Ojelabi, has announced the construction of a new divisional mini-stadium to be sited at Isashi.
The announcement came during the high-octane grand finale of the maiden Ojelabi Football Competition, held recently at the Lagos State University (LASU) playing field. Ojelabi, a staunch advocate for grassroots development, emphasized that the stadium project is a direct response to the need for modern facilities that can nurture the next generation of football stars in an area famous for producing legends like Sunday Oliseh and Emmanuel Amunike.
Sporting Hotspurs Crowned Champions
The tournament concluded with a thrilling final where Sporting Hotspurs of Ajeromi Ifelodun** defeated the LASU Blazers of Ojo with a 2-0 victory. After a tense, goalless first half, the Hotspurs found their rhythm in the second period, securing the inaugural trophy and a grand prize of ₦1 million.
The runners-up, LASU Blazers, were awarded ₦750,000, while Abiodun Kings of Ato Awori clinched the third-place spot and ₦500,000 after a hard-fought 1-0 win over New Era of Badagry. The competition, which featured 74 teams from across 10 LGAs and LCDAs, was hailed for its zero-violence record over 86 matches.
A Vision for Regional Unity
Addressing a crowd of royal fathers, political leaders, and sports enthusiasts, Hon. Ojelabi stressed that the competition's primary goal was to foster inter-ethnic harmony and peaceful coexistence. He noted that the success of the event proves that sports can be a powerful tool for social stability in the Badagry Division.
"The major objectives were to promote unity and identify talents," Ojelabi stated. "It is gratifying that from the kick-off in November 2025 to this grand finale, not a single incident of violence was recorded."
Expanding the ‘Ojelabi Cup’
Buoyed by the massive community engagement, the APC Chairman pledged ₦20 million for the next edition. He also revealed plans to expand the tournament to cover all local governments and LCDAs within the Lagos West Senatorial District, ensuring more youths have access to talent scouts and professional opportunities.
Furthering the commitment to long-term development, the Local Organising Committee (LOC), led by Mr. Deji Williams, presented a proposal for the Ojelabi Sports Academy (OSA). This academy is envisioned as a multi-sport hub that will provide professional training not just in football, but also in athletics, basketball, volleyball, and tennis.
Strengthening the Badagry Legacy
The decision to site the mini-stadium at Isashi is seen as a strategic step to decentralize sports infrastructure in Lagos. For decades, the Badagry-Ojo axis has been a hotbed for raw football talent, and the new facility is expected to transform the local economy through sports tourism and youth employment.
The event was attended by high-profile dignitaries, including the Lagos State Commissioner for Tertiary Education, Hon. Tolani Sule, and various members of the State House of Assembly, all of whom praised the initiative as a "blueprint for grassroots empowerment."