WALBOG Motors Football Tourney Gets November For Kickoff Date

The organizer of the money spinning grassroots football tournament that is being held annually in Ibadan, Grassroots Football Talents Developers Association of Nigeria (GRAFTADEAN) has announced that the 2023 edition of WALBOG Motors Football Tourney will be played between November and December.

This year’s edition of the soccer tournament is going to witness many new innovations with bigger incentives according to the statement issued by the coordinator of the tournament, Abass Ishola, a sport’s journalist with Solution FM Ibadan, and made available to newsmen in Ibadan.

“The donor and financier of the competition, Olawale Ogunkeyede CEO WAL-BOG Motors has promised to unveil the topnotch materials that he had acquired from Europe that will be use to execute the tournament during the opening ceremony tentatively scheduled for mid November,” said Radio presenter that is popularly called Abasslah.

Ogunkeyede also added that some of his closed associates in the automobile business have pledged to get involved in the organization of the tournament from the early stage especially this year that the competition will enter its fourth edition and notable among is a supporter of grassroots football and a big backer of the tournament, Alh. Olayiwola Kolawole the CEO of De-KK Auto.

Interested teams within and outside Ibadan have however been enjoined to commence their registration process with the GRAFTADEAN, the organizer of the soccer fiesta as no late registration will be entertained this year.

Mogaji Gbolagade Hails Scorpion For His TKO Against Ghana’s Quartey

Mogaji Gbolagade with the fighters
and officials after the bout

The representative of Olubadan of Ibadan Oba Moshood Lekan Balogun at the Boxing Show held on Friday in Lagos tagged: ‘The Home Coming Bout’, Professor Abiodun Gbolagade has commended former WBF Featherweight Champion, Ridwan ‘Scorpion’ Oyekola who knocked out Ghana’s Emmanuel Quartey in round one of the bout.

Speaking after the boxing show held inside the indoor sports hall of National Stadium Surulere Lagos, the Mogaji Labo relayed the goodwill messages of the Olubadan to the boxers especially to the Ibadan born ‘Scorpion’ that had made the country in Asia land before coming back home to fight again.

“I’m happy to watch own boy, Ridwan who is a crowd puller and now I can attest to hi has sterling records recorded within his short stay in Japan where I was told had six fights; winning four, drawing one and narrowly losing one to Japanese, Keisuke Matsumoto via unanimous decision.” Mogaji noted.

Other fighters that featured in the show are; Sunday Abudu and Toheeb Wasiu that locked horns in the heavyweight category, while Adeyemi Adekanla battled Seminu Olapade in the Light Welterweight bout with Oto ‘JOE BOY’ Joseph recording a TKO against Bartholomey Abuchi in the Light welterweight category respectively.

The stylish Riliwan ‘Baby Face’ Babatunde knocked out Isiaka Raimi in a welterweight contest, while Ibrahim Taofeek and Stephen Agbor also clashed in the welterweight bout.

Also, Lateef Azeez beat Thomas Baba Yakubu in featherweight challenge contest and Kabiru ‘Godson’ Towolawi finished Joe John in the third round of a cruiserweight challenge contest while the female bout between Barakat Adebisi and Celina Agwu in a light heavyweight challenge contest ended in favour of Adebisi.

YSFON Honors Sanusi With Ilaji Nat. U-16 Boys Soccer Tournament

The national body of Youth Sports Federations of Nigeria (YSFON) has unveiled a new national football completion named after the Ibadan based renowned sports resort, and tagged: Ilaji National Under-16 Boys Soccer Tournament designed to be played annually by all States of the federation at the Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resorts, Akanran Ibadan Oyo State.

This was revealed in a letter signed by the National Secretary of YSFON, Patrick Okpavuerhe and sent out to all State chapters of the body, stating Monday 27th November for the arrival of all the participants, while the closing ceremony has been scheduled for December 3rd 2023.

The football tourney was put together according to the organizer to further restate the commitment of Engr. Dotun Sanusi, the Chairman of the Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort to the development of grassroots sports in Nigeria and create more opportunities for young lads aspiring to realize their dreams of making a living via the round leather game.

The statement urged YSFON officials that will accompany the state’s team to the tournament to be fully armed with all the data of players in his team as scouts that will be coming from abroad might require the data of players during the tournament.    

States are enjoined to present a team made up of players that are technically, physically and psychologically sound, because the tournament is talent identification and marketing oriented one with a team expected to be made up of 20 players strictly under the age of 16 as at December 15th 2023 with body weight of 58kg and height of 1.5m.

Meanwhile the Chairman of Southwest chapter of YSFON, Rafiu Abayomi Alabi who will be the chief host has promised a secured and fun-filled atmosphere for all the states that will be coming to Ibadan the capital city of Oyo State for the maiden tournament, assuring the players and their officials of a memorable stay during the soccer fiesta.

Kayrom Lee Reveals Reason For Free Lab For Students

Alhaji Atanda Bada, Chief Iman of Oluyole Estate praying during the opening of the laboratory 

The pioneer chairperson of Oyo State Netball Association, Amb Romoke Ayinde has revealed reasons behind the science laboratory she commissioned during her 52nd birthday and the unveiling of Netball in Oyo State.

The laboratory was set up inside the swimming pool complex of Obafemi Awolowo stadium for the use of students in Ibadan and its environs and interested students who are not privileged to have access to private lessons will enjoy the facility for sciences subjects Physics,  chemistry, biology, and even mathematics.

Oyo State House of Assembly member representing Oluyole State Constituency, Hon Waheed Akintayo cutting the tape to open the laboratory 

Amb Ayinde, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Kayrom Lee Group of Companies, explained that her vision for the upliftment of youths in the state was her main reason for the establishment of the multi million naira laboratory.

"Some people are wondering why I set up a laboratory for students free? The reason is not far fetched. Some people around can not afford a private tutorial lesson for their children who are in the science classes and by providing a laboratory and teachers to teach them free, I believe I can be able to help them improve their educational level and again compliment government efforts in the education sector," Amb Ayinde said.

Cross section of dignitaries and students at the event 

Speaking further, Amb Ayinde, who is also the Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State said because of the people in the inter land, who have no access to modern technology like telephone, email and so on, interested should forward their details to a Post Office Box.

"Interested students should apply through the P O Box 19190, Dugbe Ibadan, Oyo state Nigeria to get Identity card to attend whatever classes that suit them," she said.

Amongst the dignitaries that graced the occasion were Alhaji Daud Afolabi, the coordinator of NACOMYO who represents the Sultan of Sokoto, Evangelist Dr Funmi Aragbaye, who is also the mother of the day, Mrs Temitope Ayefele, who serves as the special guest, Alhaji Atanda Bada, the Chief Iman of Oluyole Estate, CSP Mavis Ayokunmi, DPO of Challenge Police station, who represents the Oyo State Police Commissioner and many others.

Date for the commencement of the class will be announced before the beginning of next academy season.

Friends, Family Rejoice With Kayrom Lee As She Bagged Double Honour

Amb Ayinde receiving the award from CSP Marvis and Kola Omotosho

It was fanfare at the poolside of the Obafemi Awolowo stadium on Thursday as the pioneer Chairperson of Oyo State Netball Association, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde was honoured with double award of UK and Ireland Black History Month 2023.

Journalists, friends and family were among the notable personalities that grace the epoch ceremony to celebrate Amb Ayinde for her philanthropic gestures and selfless service to the society.

Amb Ayinde with veteran journalist, Lanre Akanji at the event 

According to the organiser, the award, which is a recognition of of the invaluable contributions made by individuals, organizations, and entities from the Black community to the society, was presented to Amb. Ayinde and another one for her philanthropic organisation, Imperial Initiative for Human Development (IIHD) for her unrelenting and selfless contribution to the development of youth and the less priviledge in our society.

Speaking at the presentation, Kola Omotosho, an on air personality who represent the UK and Ireland Black History Month 2023 award organiser, explained the motive behind Amb Ayinde's choice for the award saying, the award, which serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations and highlights the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all, was given to her and other deserving individuals because of their contributing to the broader narrative of inclusive and appreciation of the diverse and impactful contributions made by Black individuals on the society.

Amb Ayinde dancing with the cultural group of Ogbere Community Secondary school at the event 

Speaking at the ceremony, Amb Ayinde, who is also the Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State, said the award is not only for her but all the people who shared her vision and always support her to achieve it.

"In the moments when I'm honored with awards like this, it's a reminder to me that these accolades are not just about me, but they represent the collective efforts of a dedicated team. 

"Teamwork is paramount in all that I do and I always strive to maintain a strong morale in my work. It's incredibly humbling to receive calls from individuals in different countries expressing their intent to honor me with awards. 

"I take immense joy in my role as a humanitarian, and I firmly believe that my journey has been guided and supported by the divine. My heartfelt thanks go out to everyone who has been part of this incredible journey with me."                      Chief Superintendent of police of Police, Marvis Ayokunmi, who is the Divisional Police Officer of the Challenge Police Station graced the event and he presented the award to the recipient, Amb Ayinde


Amb Ayinde, who is the Chief Executive Officer of Kayrom Lee Group of Companies, tireless efforts in impactful work have garnered recognition not only locally but also on the international stage. Her humility and dedication serve as an inspiration to all. 

Media personalities from across Oyo State graced the award ceremony.

Amb Ayinde with Oyo State Netball Association Communication manager, Kenny Ogunmiloro at the event 

Abimbola Davis Congratulates Tinubu, Shettima Over Supreme Court Victory

President Tinubu

Otunba Abimbola Davis has congratulated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and the Vice President, Sen. Kashim Shettima over the Supreme Court verdict that affirmed their victory in the February 25, 2023 presidential election urging the oppositions to cooperate with the government to move the country forward.

The apex court, in its ruling, dismissed the appeals by the presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, and his Labour Party counterpart Peter Obi and upheld the victory of President Bola Tinubu and his vice, Kashim Shettima, in the election.

The Author and Businessman in a statement issued in Ibadan and made available to newsmen appealed to politicians to prioritize the interest of Nigeria, noting that the country is greater than any individual.

The Chairman Governing Council of International Psychometrics Centre, Ibadan commended the legal teams of both parties for straightening Nigerian democracy and the country’s electoral jurisprudence.

The Ibadan high Chief however expressed optimism that the judgment would help redirect the people and the opposition on the task of making Nigeria great, saying “with this final judgment, I hope we can now all put aside our differences and work for the common good of all, irrespective of our party’s affiliation.”

Otunba Davis

Akande Graduates From NIPSS, Bags Nelson Mandela Humanitarian Award

In his quest to broaden his knowledge and reach for more vistas, the Ibadan-born educationist and philanthropist, Dr. Akande Kazeem Babatunde has added another professional qualification after completing a course of study at the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPSS) Kuru Jos.

Akande and several other well meaning Nigerians graduated on Thursday from the foremost institute that teaches policy, strategy and leadership in Nigeria which is a policy formation center for bureaucrats, private sector leaders, military officers, and medium-rank and senior civil servants and most policymakers in Nigeria have attended.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony in Jos yesterday, Akande said the one-month short course training featured several government officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Police Service Commission, Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria, and several other government parastatals.

He expressed his joy for being able to take this leap with faith and completing it without incidents, noting that he felt it was not enough to contribute financially to peace, youth empowerment, and education, but he believes it's time to move and partner with the government to ensure there is development in the aforementioned sectors. Hence, he saw the importance of understanding policy making and implementation which is why he decided to fully fund and attend the short course.

Akande further noted that the one-month short course has been intensive and breathtaking while commending the leadership of the institute for the rigorous and mind-opening training they have been able to dole out in just a month.

Akande noted that this sojourn to kuru Jos will definitely not be without fruits, has he hinted the press about his plans to come up with a policy proposal around education and youth entrepreneurship for the Oyo State government, with emphasis on a policy proposal that will encourage the re-integration of retired teachers to teach core subjects at senior secondary school levels.

Adding to the colorful graduation ceremony was the recognition of Dr. Akande Kazeem by the African Youth Initiative for Good Governance and Peace. The convener of the group, Oyewole Micheal, noted that the organisation decided to bestow him with the Nelson Mandela Humanitarian Award after following his giant strides in humanitarian services.

The convener noted that the award was reserved for benevolent and altruistic individuals who have made an impact in the lives of people in their communities, while encouraging him to keep up the good work by putting more smiles on the faces of people.

Also speaking at the graduation event is the Director General of the National Institute of Policy and Strategic Studies, Professor Ayo Omotayo, who was represented by Prof Funmi Para-Malam mni, who stressed the importance of the institute to the nation stating that it has built leaders in government and several ministries for many decades.

She noted that the short course might look abridged but participants have gained the best of policy making, implementation, and leadership. He encouraged the participants to make efforts to attend the extensive course in 2024.

Akande extended his thanks to colleagues and staff of NIPPS who have made the stay in Jos pleasant, while thanking Prof. Ayo Omotayo; Director General, Brig Gen CFJ Udaya mni, Prof. OJ.Para-Mallam mni, Prof. Pam Dung, Prof Jane Ande, Rt Hon Joyce Lohya Ramnap, Mrs Sandra Agbor, Mr Chinedu Okoye, Mrs Oluwakemi Aina, Mr Isiah Muhammed Ozi, Dajan Maksat Caleb, Maryan Badooh, Chioma Ohadiugha, the faculties and other management staff.

Kayrom Lee bags UK And Ireland Black History Award

Ambassador Romoke Ayinde

For her philanthropic efforts in making positive impact on the society, the Chief Executive Officer of Kayrom Lee Group of Companies, Ambassador Romoke Ayinde has been awarded the UK and Ireland Black History Month 2023 awards.

The award, which is a recognition of of the invaluable contributions made by individuals, organizations, and entities from the Black community, was presented to Amb. Ayinde for her unrelent and selfless contribution to the development of youth and the less priviledge in our society.

Speaking at the presentation, Kola Omotosho, an on air personality who explained the motive behind Amb Ayinde's choice for the award said, the award, which serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for future generations and highlights the ongoing efforts to create a more equitable and just society for all, was given to her and other deserving individuals because of their contributing to the broader narrative of inclusivity and appreciation of the diverse and impactful contributions made by Black individuals on the society.

Amb Ayinde, who is also the pioneer Chairperson of Oyo State Netball Association, in her acceptance speech said, the award is not only for her but all the people who shared her vision and always support her to achieve it.

"I can say boldly that the award is not for me alone but you people like the pressmen and my support staffs who are always ready to support me in all ways.

"This award will prompt me to do more because when I was doing things in my own little way to support the youth and less priviledge, I did not know that some people are watching me. This gave me a sense of achievement and more will to do more," Amb Ayinde, who is also the Iyalaje Adini of Oyo State said.

Amb Ayinde, who is the brain behind the Imperial Initiative for Human Development (IIHD), is a businesswoman, sports philanthropist and entrepreneur with investment in Agriculture, sport, Hospitality and Fashion.

An employer of labour who established five major Companies (Kayrom Lee Farm, Kayrom Lee Gym & Fitness Centre, Kayrom Lee Fashion and Beauty Centre, Kayrom Lee Travels & Tours and Lee Kut Garment Factory), under the umbrella of Kayrom Lee Group of Companie.

AASG Hold Book's Launch On Tinubu As The Saviour Of Democratic Spirit Of Nigeria

President Tinubu

The Amalgamated APC Support Groups, AASG has concluded plans to launch a book, "The Saviour of Democratic Spirit of Nigeria" on Thursday, the 26th October, 2023 at the NAF Centre, Abuja at 10am prompt in honour of the President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

The event will have the National Chairman of the Party, H.E Dr. Umar Abdullahi Ganduje, the Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Senate President, H.E Distinguished Senator Godswill Akpbio, Speaker, House of Representatives, Rt Hon. Abbas Tajudeen in attendance as Special Guests of Honour and H.E Hope Uzodimma as the Chief Launcher.

H.E Nyesom Wike, the Hon. Minister of the FCT will serve as the Chief Host while the Iyaloja General of the Federation, Folashade Tinubu-Ojo will be the Special Host. All the Governors and the serving Honourable Ministers are to be Special Guests at the event which is expected to bring under one roof all the who is who in Nigeria.

Other important dignitaries expected at the event according to a statement issued and signed by the National Director of Media Publicity for AASG, Hon. Wale Fasade are the business Magnate, Femi Otedola, A.A Rano and a host of others.

The author of the book, Hon. Abubakar Muhammad (Abk) said he was inspired to write the book after seeing the transformational ingenuity of Mr. President in Lagos State as the State Governor and how he masterminded the victory of the All Progressives Congress (APC) from opposition to being the Government of the day in Nigeria today despite all odds. He traced Mr. President's political trajectory from the days of his confrontation with the Military administration of General Sani Abacha, together with others demanding for the installation of the winner of the June 12 1993 Presidential election, Bashorun MKO Abiola as President.

Dr. Nasir Ladan, the Director-General of the AASG said the book is a well researched work by Hon. Abubakar Muhammad, one of the Support Group Leaders under the Amalgamated APC Support Groups. Mr. President deserves all honours that could be given to him now that he is alive because he has paid his dues sufficiently for a great Nigeria of our dreams to be achieved. He noted that his contributions to the present Nigeria cannot be over emphasised, he said.

In his own words, the Administrative Secretary of the Group, Hon. Alfa Haruna said Mr. President deserves such a honour as this and at a time like this. He explained that Mr. President truly fought alongside others to reinstate democratic order in Nigeria by rejecting all the tempting offers given by the then Military junta in Nigeria.

Speaking on the Book's title, Hon. Wale Fasade opined that no other title would have been more appropriate than "The Saviour of Democratic Spirit of Nigeria" having played such a pivotal role in returning Nigeria to democratic rule. Mr. President's touch of excellence on Lagos has turned the State to a gold-mine, making it the 5th largest economy is Africa, he said.

The Director of ICT/New Media, Hon. Femi Showunmi said "all is set for the event at the NAF Centre as all our members have been invited to be in attendance in their numbers, and they will definitely come". The National Director of Security and Protocol, Hon. Godwin George Amadin expressed satisfaction on the level of security already put in place for the success of the event on Thursday.

Help Look For Our Member —Farmer's Association Cried Out

Kafilat Siyanbola

The Local Agricultural Association, Ayilamo has cried out that they have yet to locate one of their members, Kafilat Siyanbola, since the occurrence of the suspected armed herdsmen attack at Ayilamo and Mbachohon communities in Logo and Gwer West Local Government Areas, LGAs of Benue State, on October 17, 2023.

It was gathered that the well-armed herders who stormed the communities around 10 p.m. after people settled in their houses also left many with serious injuries.

Ayilamo town, the headquarters of Tombo ward, in Gaambetiev, is a farming and fishing community located near Anyiin, on the Abinse-Wukari federal highway in Benue State, and has been under sustained herdsmen attack since 2016.

According to a member of the association, James Ayev, they are searching for Kafilat, who happened to be the assistant secretary of the association since the night of the attack, which reportedly left no fewer than nine people dead.

"As I am speaking with you now; the whereabouts of Kafilat are still unknown to us since she fled for her life on the night of the brutal attack last October, and all efforts to trace her have been proven abominable," Ayev said.

Tracing the reason for the attack, Ayev, who is the public relations officer of the association, said the farmer's association decided to protect their lives and properties when trouble started in the area in 2017 with the invasion of some Fulani herdsmen, which led to the herdsmen cattle's wrecking havoc on their farm product, and this provoked the farmers anger.

Ayev said Kafilat led other executives to report the case to the police, and when nothing was done, because of the support of the powerful Fulani serving in the government and in the business world in the country, the farmer's association stood up to them, which led to a serious rancor that resulted in a bloodbath.

Speaking further, Ayev said some of the reports gathered indicated Kafilat's life is not safe because the herdsmen have been convinced that she was one of the sponsors of the farmer's association that repelled their various attacks on the village, and some of the farmers in the area, including her, were declared wanted by the police for their alleged role played in the wake of the attack.

He therefore called on good Nigerians to help locate Kafilat because his whereabouts have yet to be known since the incident of the deadly attack.

UfitFly Boss Offers 50 Indigent Students Educational Boost To Celebrate Apostle Chinyere At 50

Apostle Chinyere with Ufitfly boss, Ogunkeyede

As the General overseer of Omega Power Ministry (OPM), Apostle Chibuzor Chinyere celebrates his 50th birthday the team leader of the destination management firm, UfiFly Evangelist Ajibola Ogunkeyede has offered to pay the West African Examination Council (WAEC) fees for 50 indigent students from Rivers State.                 
Ogunkeyede announced this in a statement issued to felicitate with the Clergy that is popularly dubbed ‘Icon of Free Education’ who clocks 50 years today Sunday 22nd 2023, describing him as the most spirited and magnanimous individual he had met.
UfitFly Boss in his goodwill messages to Apostle Chinyere said he will forever remain grateful to the Man of God for showing an interest in his vision and often doled out millions of naira to provide palliatives for thousands of people, especially during the outbreak of the Covid-19 in 2020.
“In marking your 50th birthday, we at UfitFly choose to follow your path by declaring educational support for 50 indigent students in Rivers State, as we are going to pay for their 2024 may-June O’Level WAEC Examination as a way to support the good work Apostle Chinyere is doing in the educational sector of the State,” said Ogunkeyede.
He however prayed that “You will achieve that strong desire in you to deliver as many people as possible from darkness into the light of God. You are with God, and whoever is with Him shall never fail but continue to succeed in whatever he touches.”
“OPM as a ministry is dedicated to helping the underprivileged Children and individuals in communities and also giving hope to prisoners, helping people whose living condition hinders their mentally, physically, spiritually and emotional growth.”

Ojelabi Pledges Support For Oyo's Netball Revival

A United Kingdom based businessman, Anthony Olufemi Ojelabi has pledged to support the revival of the game of netball in Oyo state.

Speaking during his courtesy visit to the pioneer chairperson of Oyo State Netball Association, Amb. Romoke Ayinde, Ojelabi said he is very happy to associate with the revival of netball in Oyo state because of his unrelent love for the youth and his past experience with Amb Ayinde.

"I have known Amb. Ayinde for a very long time and I can vouch for her integrity and when I learnt that she is leading the revival of netball in Oyo state, I quickly bought into it.

"I came all the way from UK to see how I can give back to the society expecially Oyo state because I was brought up here, and with Amb Ayinde, who I have known to always did things selflessly, I will do all within my power to support the project and her other projects, that's the laboratory she donated for the use of the state students," Ojelabi said.

Speaking further, Ojelabi promise to purchase equipments for netball from his UK base to support the revival of the game and again provide funds for the purchase of chemicals for the laboratory use.

In her reaction, Amb Ayinde, who is also the Iyalaje Adini of Oyo state, said she is very happy with Ojelabi's gesture and urge more people to emulate him." 

Mr Anthony Ojelabi deserve an accolades for his philanthropic gesture and more people should emulate him for the development of our youth who are tomorrow's leaders.

"We can not leave everything to the government but we must contribute our own quota to the development of sports in our country," Amb Ayinde fondly called Kayrom Lee, said.