The Minister of Youth and Sports Development, Sunday Dare Thursday visited the new Chief Imam of Ogbomosoland, Alhaji Yunus Ayilara to congratulate him on his new role, whilst praying for wisdom and grace to make his reign peaceful and prosperous for Ogbomosoland.
The Minister seized the occasion to inform his host of the numerous Federal Government projects cited in Ogbomoso, prominent among which is the N1bn Ecological Fund approved yesterday at the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, which would enable the town tackle drainage problems, control erosion and flood. He revealed that the project will last for 18 months, providing jobs for 250 youth and 40 engineers.
In commemoration of the 40 days of the demise of the Soun of Ogbomoso, Dare informed his host that a Table Tennis Championship is presently on-going, which would be an annual event in Oyo State, though domiciled in Ogbomoso.
He also stated that a multi-purpose sports centre is currently undergoing construction which will feature table-tennis, basketball, indoor boxing ring amongst others, upon completion.
“The sports centre will give an opportunity to the youth and sports enthusiasts to hone their skills, and be a breeding ground for the discovery of young talents that will, in no distant future, represent Nigeria at international sporting events,” the Minister added.
In his response, Alhaji Ayilara thanked the Minister for the visit, expressing the appreciation of the community for the laudable projects facilitated by his guest. He described Dare as a proud son of Ogbomosoland, an epitome of honesty and integrity that has taken the name of the town to national front-burner, on account of his impressive performance as Minister.
“The performance of the Super Eagles at the on-going Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is a testimony to the innovations brought to bear on sports and youth development under your stewardship,” the Chief Imam asserted.
He prayed for God’s protection and favour upon the Minister to take Ogbomoso and Oyo State to greater heights.
