Abimbola Abatta, Osogbo
The organiser of the 2021 Ijesha Grand Marathon, Mr. Tijani Remilekun Usman has revealed that Osun will always be left behind in sports activities until the State government installs proper facilities where sports can thrive.
Mr. Usman, who stated this at the April edition of ‘Stakeholders Forum’, a monthly Guest Appearance programme of the Osun Chapter of Sports Writers Association of Nigeria, (SWAN) decried the state of sports facilities in the state and called on the government and other organisations to embark on sports infrastructural development for talented Osun indigenes in various sports to train to reach the top level.
“Osun is blessed with abundant talents in every category of sports but it’s difficult for these young ones to reach their full potentials due to poor infrastructural development which hinders their performance. For sports to grow, infrastructure is the key and that’s why the government should look into this area to help our athletes.”
“Those of us who are blessed are ready to assist the government in sponsoring events if enabling platforms are provided. I, therefore, appeal to the government to ensure that we have standard sports facilities where our youth can be trained to become national stars.”
Usman explained that the Ijesa Grand Marathon was organised to curb youth restiveness, crimes and gangsterism in Ijesaland and its environs, adding that the event is already yielding desired results.
Arguing that Ijesaland, especially Ilesa, now enjoys peace since the marathon ended, he said the engagement of youths in sporting activities would address the growing insecurities being witnessed in the state and the country at large.
Usman disclosed that he was already making plans to meet with Osun State Governor, Gboyega Oyetola to discuss how his administration could provide infrastructure and develop talents in the state.
The sports supporter expressed commitment to sustaining the marathon adding that he was already collaborating with security agencies across Ijesaland to restore security and total safety in the state.
He stated that with more investments in sports and engagements of youth, the growing calls for the secession of Nigeria will be suppressed. He said over 700 athletes participated in the Ijesa Grand Marathon across the country and that N2.7million was spent as cash prizes for the winners.
Usman called on stakeholders to join him in ensuring that the state government gives due attention to sports in Osun and expressed optimism that the state would host the Sports Festival once the necessary infrastructure has been put in place.
Earlier, Chairman Osun Chapter of SWAN, Timothy Agbor lauded ‘General’ as Mr Usma is fondly called for deeming it fit to stage such a huge event in Osun and called on other wealthy indigenes to emulate this good gesture.
“We thank Mr. Usman for staging the marathon in our dear state and we are happy with the initiative which is a clear diversification from the normal norm of football competition. As Sports Writers, we are ready to work with any private individual or any corporate body that wishes to add value to Osun Sports development through sponsorship and organization and we look forward to working with you in your subsequent programmes aimed at assisting talented Osun youth in sports,” stated Agbor.
There were remarks by the initiator of the marathon, Coach Yinka Ogunkeye and the Former Vice President of SWAN, South West, Alhaji Muideen Adeleke among others who reeled out benefits of organising and promoting other sports to ensure that youth can have varieties of platforms to showcase their God-given talents.