By Victor Okoye
Akure, Dec. 23, 2025 – The maiden President Bola Tinubu Sports Festival in Ondo State ended colourfully at FUTA Sports Complex, Akure, attracting huge youth participation and sports enthusiasts.
The grassroots fiesta, organised by Grassroots Movement for Tinubu (GMT), featured athletes from state zones competing in football, athletics, table tennis and other events.
Speaking at the finale, GMT Director-General in Ondo, Hon. Saka Yusuf-Ogunleye, said the festival aimed to discover, nurture and develop young talents through sports.
Yusuf-Ogunleye said sports promote unity, discipline and youth engagement, describing it as a vital tool for nation-building and social cohesion.
He added that the initiative aligned with President Bola Tinubu’s emphasis on youth empowerment and productive engagement across the country.
The director-general appreciated the festival sponsor, Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, for his steadfast support and encouragement to the movement.
He said the festival also mobilised grassroots support for the Renewed Hope Agenda while offering youths opportunities to showcase talents competitively.
Yusuf-Ogunleye thanked FUTA and other tertiary institutions for providing facilities that ensured smooth hosting despite logistical challenges.
“Our vision is to mobilise grassroots support for the Renewed Hope Agenda while enlightening citizens on policies to strengthen the economy and restore confidence,” he said.
He said the group’s mission was to engage, educate and empower citizens peacefully, ensuring governance is seen as shared responsibility.
The event was chaired by former NNPC Limited Board Chairman, Chief Pius Olu Akinyelure.
The festival ended with presentation of trophies, medals and prizes to outstanding athletes and teams.
In football, Okitipupa Zone emerged champions, with Akoko Zone second and Akure Zone third.
In athletics, Temitope Bello of Akoko Zone won the men’s 100 metres, ahead of Olumide Daniel and Saliu Toheeb.
Sunny Mumini of Akoko Zone won the 400 metres, followed by Wisdom James of Akure Zone and Owolabi Victor of Ondo Zone.
Nelson Joseph of Akoko Zone won the combined 100 and 400 metres, with Wisdom James and Adeyeye Richard finishing second and third.
Other events produced notable performances, with Ayo Olopon Omosowon Idowu winning his category.
In table tennis, Ilesanmi Olatunji of Akure Zone emerged winner, while Timothy and Fusho Abiodun placed second and third.
GMT Director-General in Ogun, Hon. Tola Banjo, said the group was committed to showcasing the President’s achievements, noting campaigns had not commenced.
Former Ondo Commissioner for Women Affairs, Deaconess Lola Fagbemi, said the programme showcased Tinubu’s achievements, urging the region to rally behind him.
Dignitaries included the Ondo Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, NSCDC Commandant Oloyede Oyerinde, and AMG Women Coordinator, Hon. Yetunde Adeyanju.
