The Deputy Governor of Osun State, Prince Kola Adewusi, has thrown his full support behind the upcoming Osun State Intercollegiate Games 2024. The much-anticipated event is slated to run from November 20 to December 4, 2024, and will be hosted at two renowned venues: the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU) Sports Complex in Ile-Ife and the Federal Polytechnic Ede Sports Complex in Ede.
As both the Deputy Governor and the state’s Commissioner for Sports, Prince Adewusi has consistently championed initiatives aimed at youth empowerment through sports. In his endorsement speech, he highlighted the significance of the Intercollegiate Games as a transformative platform designed to promote unity, discover emerging talents, and strengthen ties between higher institutions across Osun State.
“The Osun Intercollegiate Games is a brilliant concept aimed at uniting our higher institutions through healthy competition,” Adewusi remarked. “This event not only promotes physical fitness but also builds camaraderie and resilience among our young talents. My office will provide all the necessary resources to ensure its success.”
The organizers of the games, Ace Sports, have been lauded for their meticulous preparations. During a courtesy visit to the Deputy Governor, Olayiwola Olafiranye, Team Lead of Ace Sports, expressed the team’s commitment to delivering an exceptional experience. “We are thrilled about the 2024 edition of the Osun Intercollegiate Games. Our team has been working tirelessly to ensure everything is in top shape, from logistics to infrastructure,” Olafiranye said.
He acknowledged the pivotal role of the state government in ensuring the success of the event, noting, “We deeply appreciate the continuous support from the Osun State Government and Deputy Governor Adewusi, whose commitment to youth and sports development is exemplary.”
Ace Sports’ Chief Operating Officer, Olayinka Olawole, provided further insights into the games’ scope. He revealed that the competition will feature six sports: athletics, football, chess, scrabble, badminton, tug of war, and table tennis. “This broad participation aims to provide a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents and compete for glory,” Olawole stated.
Olawole emphasized the importance of collective efforts in ensuring the event’s success. He called on corporate bodies, alumni associations, and sports enthusiasts to come forward and support the initiative. “These games belong to all of us. It’s a chance to celebrate our youth and invest in the future of Osun State. Together, we can make this event a landmark success,” he added.
Speaking on the event’s broader significance, Ibrahim Akinokun, Head of Logistics for the games, described it as a festival of culture, resilience, and unity. “The Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024 promises to be more than a sporting competition. It is poised to leave a lasting impact on the sporting landscape of Osun State,” Akinokun noted.
He also extended gratitude to Prince Adewusi for his unwavering support, emphasizing that the event’s success will be a testament to the collaborative efforts of all stakeholders involved.
With the state government’s backing and the organizers’ dedication, the Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024 is set to be a historic event, fostering sportsmanship, cultural pride, and community spirit.