Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, on Thursday played host to delegates from across Nigeria as the Pace Setter State became the center of football discourse with the hosting of the Nigeria Premier Football League Annual General Meeting.
Speaking on behalf of the governor, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Mrs. Wasilat Adegoke, welcomed participants to Ibadan and described football as more than just a game. She said the sport remains a powerful instrument for national unity, youth empowerment, economic development and national pride.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome you all to the Pace Setter State for the Nigeria Premier Football League Annual General Meeting. On behalf of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Oyo State, Engr. Seyi Makinde, I extend our warmest greetings and best wishes for a successful and productive gathering,” Adegoke said.
The commissioner noted that the Makinde administration has deliberately invested in sports infrastructure and grassroots development because of the role sports plays in engaging youths and driving economic activity. She added that Oyo State is open to partnerships that will reposition Nigerian football for global relevance.
“Oyo State is proud to host this important meeting, and we remain committed to creating an enabling environment for sports to thrive. We believe that the resolutions reached here will further advance the growth, professionalism and global competitiveness of the NPFL,” she stated.
Adegoke stressed that the commitment of stakeholders in the NPFL over the years has continued to strengthen the country’s football ecosystem. According to her, the league has the potential to create thousands of jobs, attract investors and project a positive image of Nigeria both locally and internationally.
She urged delegates to take advantage of Ibadan’s hospitality and sporting facilities during their stay, while reaffirming the state government’s readiness to support initiatives that will benefit athletes, clubs and sporting organisations.
The NPFL AGM brought together club owners, league management officials, referees’ representatives and other key stakeholders to review the past season and set the agenda for the new football season. Key issues expected to be discussed include league sponsorship, broadcast rights, club licensing, officiating standards and welfare of players.
Speaking earlier, some of the delegates commended Governor Makinde for the state’s investment in sports, particularly the upgrade of facilities at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, which has continued to host NPFL matches.
With Ibadan hosting the meeting, stakeholders expressed optimism that the resolutions from the AGM would help reposition the NPFL as one of the most competitive leagues on the African continent.
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