A prominent traditional leader in Ogun State, High Chief Bode Mustapha (Osi of Egbaland) has poured eulogies on the maiden edition of an athletics competition for secondary schools in Remo, Ijebu, Egba and Yewa (RIYE) zone.
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Sports247 reports that Mustapha, who was the special guest of honour during the opening ceremony at MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Abeokuta, said the first RIYE U15 Athletics Circuit is a landmark initiative for sports development in Ogun State.
Mustapha added that seeing the students pull off impressive performances during the championship organised by the governor’s special adviser on youth development, Honourable Tunde Delu, proved the depth of youthful talent in the state.
He further described the circuit as a visionary platform capable of transforming the lives of young people through sports, as it not only showcased raw athletic ability but also set a new standard for structured talent discovery in Ogun State.
While citing his personal experience, Mustapha recalled how sports changed his life when he represented Nigeria in table tennis at the age of 18, and a single top performance during a competition earned him an overseas scholarship.
The Egba chief also commended Honourable Delu and members of the organising committee for the successful maiden edition, then expressed hope that it will become an annual event and leave a lasting legacy for grassroots sports ventures.
“Sports have a lot of advantages. Many people watch you, but you don’t know they are watching. One competition like this can become the turning point in your life and I can say that because I am a product of sports.
“I played table tennis for Nigeria at 18. After winning a tournament, the sponsor told me, ‘I will send you abroad to study.’ That opportunity made me who I am today,” said Mustapha, who also urged the youngsters to remain disciplined.
