Ex-Ondo Lawmaker Calls for Grassroots Football Investment

Gbenga Omole, a former member of the Ondo State House of Assembly from 2019 to 2023, advocated for greater investment in grassroots football development at the grand finale of the eighth Akogun U-20 Annual Football Competition in Oka Akoko. He stressed that nurturing young players is vital for improving Nigeria's football fortunes and reducing the loss of talent.

Omole, who organized the competition since 2018, highlighted its success in discovering and promoting young football talents, with several players advancing to professional football, including one currently in Europe. He announced that about 10 promising players were identified this year, with plans to take four or five to an academy in Abuja through a partnership with Inspiration Academy.

Ondo State Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa, represented by Gani Mohammed, praised the event's organization and the displayed skills, noting ongoing efforts to develop sporting facilities, including a world-standard stadium in Akure.