Glorious Climax as Ilara Youth Day ’25’ Concludes with Grand Football Match
By Gafar Edun
The Ilara Youth Day (IYD) Football Competition, one of the flagship activities of the Ilara Youth Day celebration, successfully reached its grand finale today in Ilara Border Land, marking a memorable climax to weeks of competitive and engaging football action.
The final match produced a thrilling contest between Gateway Base and Owonsọ Base, with Owonsọ Base FC emerging victorious by two goals to one (2–1). The encounter was marked by high tempo, discipline, and outstanding sportsmanship, further confirming the steady growth of grassroots football in Ilara.
The match was professionally officiated by the Nigeria Referees Association (NRA), Imeko-Afon Local Branch, led by Mr. Adeogun Sunday, whose exemplary performance reaffirmed the availability of competent and certified referees within Imeko-Afon Local Government.
The event recorded distinguished and qualified attendance from key stakeholders. The National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Imeko-Afon Local Chapter, led by Comrade Elijah Emmanuel, with Comrade Hammed Babatunde (NYCN State Deputy Director), Comrade Raheem Sheriff (NYCN P.R.O., Imeko-Afon), and other directorate members, demonstrated unity and solidarity with Ilara youths.
Likewise, the Community Development Committees (CDC) were ably represented by Mr. Akann Sinan (Senatorial Executive Member), Hon. Azeez Oladele (Ilara Ogundo Area CDC chairman), Mr. Falola Shola (Ilara Central Area CDC. Chairman), and Mr. Tunjani Gbadebo (Ogundo AGS Area CDC), among others.
Also deserving of special commendation was Hon. Azeez Ayeloja, whose steadfast support and active involvement stood out throughout the program. His firm commitment to the vision of the Ilara Youth Day initiators significantly contributed to the success of the football competition.
The ceremonial kickoff was performed by His Royal Majesty, Oba Dr. Mutiu Alani Adedimeji Oyede-Lawal, Sijuade Adunkunnu I, the Oloola of Ilara Yewa Land, accompanied by eminent chiefs, including Chief Mrs. Felicia Shafa, the Iyalode of Ilara Land; Chief Mrs. Mary Osundunke, the Otun Iyalode; Chief Alani Ibitokun, the Basorun of Ilara Land; and Chief Mathins Ajibode, the Sobaloju of Ilara Land.
In his goodwill message, Chief Alani Ibitokun, the Basorun of Ilara Land, passionately called on all young men and women of Ilara Yewa Land to turn out en masse for the next day’s Ilara Youth Day activity, tagged “Youth Discussion with the Oloola.” He stressed that the engagement would open the eyes of the youths to the realities, responsibilities, and developmental direction of Ilara Land, while offering them a rare opportunity to interact directly with their royal father.
A particularly memorable highlight of the ceremony occurred during the presentation of the trophy to the first-place winners, when Chief Mrs. Felicia Shafa, the Iyalode of Ilara Land, offered sacred prayers for the Ilara Youth Day initiator, invoking divine guidance, longevity, and continued wisdom. She also extended heartfelt words of blessing and appreciation to all sponsors and supporters who contributed financially and morally toward the success of the program.
Beyond the final scoreline, the competition showcased exceptional footballing talents. The players displayed impressive skills, tactical intelligence, resilience, and teamwork, once again proving that Ilara Yewa Land is richly blessed with football talents capable of competing at higher levels.
As the curtains fall on the IYD Football Competition, one message stands clear:
Ilara youth footballers are ready for the world. With the right exposure, support, and investment, these young athletes possess the potential to excel nationally and internationally while proudly projecting the name of Ilara Yewa Land.
