OGILO SKOPE (the speaking pen 🖊️)

Ekiti Para Athletes Set Records, Return from 2026 National Games The Ekiti State para-athletes contingent has returned home after an impressive outing at the 2026 National Para Games held at the Moshood Abiola National Stadium, where they recorded historic achievements. The games, which ran from March 26 to April 3, 2026, saw Ekiti athletes compete in six sporting events, securing medals across multiple categories and setting new milestones for the state. Notably, the contingent made history in wheelchair basketball, para soccer, and para swimming—events in which Ekiti participated for the first time and still emerged with medals. In individual performances, Taiwo Olasunkanmi clinched gold in para karate, while Araomo Oladapo Stephen secured silver in the same event. The wheelchair basketball team also delivered a strong performance, earning a silver medal. Ajimati Modupe won bronze in para powerlifting, while Olaniyi Joshua claimed bronze in shot put. Ofere Modupe added another bronze...

Oye, Ado, Gbonyin, Irepodun/Ifelodun Reach Akin Oyebode Cup Semi-Finals After Thrilling Quarter-Finals The quarter-final matches of the Akin Oyebode Cup produced excitement and high drama, with four teams emerging from a series of entertaining and closely contested encounters. Gbonyin (Aiyekire) secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Ikole in the opening game, while Irepodun/Ifelodun claimed an impressive 5-3 win against Ekiti East in a lively, high-scoring contest. Reigning champions Oye continued their strong run in the tournament with a convincing 4-2 triumph over Ise/Orun, underlining their determination to defend the title. In the most dramatic fixture, Ado and Ikere played out a thrilling 3-3 draw before Ado edged the contest 2-1 on penalties, completing the semi-final lineup alongside Oye, Irepodun/Ifelodun and Gbonyin.

Osetoba Blasts “Malicious Propaganda,” Vows to Defend Integrity, Professionalism in Ekiti Football (Tosin Popoola) The Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor , Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, has fiercely condemned what she described as a coordinated smear campaign by disgruntled elements bent on assassinating her character, declaring that no amount of propaganda will derail her commitment to professionalism, discipline and sportsmanship in Ekiti football. The reaction follows the circulation of a selectively edited video clip from a Yoruba sports programme on anchored by Bernard Fagbemiro, in which she metaphorically stated that she could not allow anyone to defeat her in “her father’s house,” a remark now being mischievously twisted to falsely suggest she was inciting violence or promoting a reckless must-win-at-home mentality. Addressing journalists in Ado Ekiti, Osetoba described the interpretation as dishonest, malicious and deliberately misleading, stressing that her sta...

  Ekiti Government Cracks Down on Stadium Violence, Warns Troublemakers of Arrest TA Sports: Dr Osetoba   The Ekiti State Government has issued a stern warning to football fans and residents over rising concerns of crowd violence at match venues, declaring that anyone found engaging in hooliganism or related offences at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti will be arrested and prosecuted. The warning follows recent incidents of crowd disturbances recorded in different league centres across the country, as well as intelligence reports suggesting that some disgruntled individuals were plotting to attack players and officials of the state-owned football clubs over match outcomes. Speaking during a radio programme in Ado Ekiti, the Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji, Dr Mrs Olusola Osetoba, said the government would not tolerate any form of violence, harassment, possession of arms or other illegal acts at the stadium. Osetoba said the govern...

  Ekiti Queens Brace for Rivers Angels Clash as NWFL Premiership Enters Matchday 8 Ekiti Queens will be aiming to boost their Super Six qualification hopes on Wednesday when they face a stern test against in a decisive Matchday 8 fixture of the . The Abeokuta encounter is seen as a defining moment for Ekiti Queens, who are determined to consolidate their position in a tightly contested group as the regular season edges toward its business end, knowing that every available point could prove crucial in the final standings. Rivers Angels, one of the league’s most experienced sides, are expected to provide stiff opposition, making the clash a high-stakes battle between two ambitious teams eager to strengthen their push for a place in the season-ending Super Six tournament. Across other centres, table-toppers will seek to extend their impressive run when they travel to Owerri to face , while host in Lagos in another crucial fixture. Aba will witness a double-header as take on ...

Ekiti Future Agenda to Honour SWAN South West Vice President Ayodeji Ogunsakin The Ekiti Future Agenda (EFA) has announced plans to honour the National Vice President of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), South West Zone, Ayodeji Ogunsakin, with the award of Emerging Leader in Sports Broadcast Journalism . Ogunsakin, who heads the Sports Unit and serves as Manager of News and Current Affairs at the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Ado Ekiti, will receive the award alongside other distinguished Ekiti sons and daughters at the organisation’s 16th anniversary celebration. According to the organisers, the recognition is in appreciation of his outstanding contributions to sports journalism, his professional character, and his unwavering commitment to excellence — qualities they say reflect the enduring values that make Ekiti a beacon of hope. The Convener of Ekiti Future Agenda, Adesina Adetola, disclosed that the anniversary event, themed “EKITI KETE: Sustaining Our ...

Osetoba Commends Oyebode’s Support as Ekiti U-17 Cricket Teams Head for National Championship The Technical Advisor to the Governor of Ekiti State on Sports Development, Dr. Olusola Osetoba, has praised the Commissioner for Finance and Economic Development, Mr. Akin Oyebode, for his sustained philanthropic support towards the growth of cricket in the state. Dr. Osetoba gave the commendation while addressing the sponsorship of Ekiti’s male and female teams to the National U-17 Cricket Championship scheduled to hold in Abeokuta, Ogun State, from February 18 to 21, 2026. She described Mr. Oyebode as a passionate sports enthusiast and a dependable pillar of support whose contributions have significantly strengthened Governor Biodun Abayomi Oyebanji’s vision for sports development in Ekiti. According to her, Mr. Oyebode, who also serves as Chairman of the Ekiti State Cricket Association, has transformed the sport in the state. She noted that cricket in Ekiti has witnessed remarkable prog...

Oluyemi Kayode Stadium Founding Committee Member, Chief Daramola Hails Sports Development in Ekiti, Confers “Orente” Title on Dr. Osetoba Chief Dr. Francis Adebayo Daramola, Secretary to the Committee that transformed the former Community Centre into the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium, Ado-Ekiti, on Tuesday visited the facility alongside the Technical Advisor on Sports Development to the Ekiti State Governor, Hon. Dr. Mrs. Olusola Osetoba. During the visit, Chief Daramola commended the level of development recorded at the stadium under the current administration, expressing satisfaction with the quality of work and visible improvements at the sports complex. The elder statesman, who is also the father of former House of Representatives member Hon. Bimbo Daramola, shared his experience as a former footballer and recalled visits to stadiums across several countries. He noted that strict regulations govern sports facilities globally, stressing that the ban on bottled drinks and alcohol in stadium...

Ekiti Govt Appoints Olawale Omoyeni as Grassroots Sports Media Aide (L-R) Omoyeni, Dr Osetoba  Popular media professional and member of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ekiti State Chapter, Olawale Omoyeni, has been appointed as Media Aide on Grassroots Sports by the Office of the Technical Adviser on Sports Development to Governor Biodun Oyebanji. The appointment was conveyed in a letter signed by the Technical Adviser on Sports, Dr. Mrs. Olusola Osetoba, which outlined the responsibilities and expectations attached to the position. Fondly called “Walelomo,” Omoyeni is tasked with providing consistent and effective media coverage for grassroots sports activities in line with the vision of Governor Oyebanji for sports development in the state. The appointment takes immediate effect and comes with monthly financial remuneration. Reacting to the development, Omoyeni expressed gratitude to the Technical Adviser and pledged to discharge his duties diligently and p...

  Ekiti Queens Fans Applauded for Supporting Ismail Zainab in NWFL Premiership Voting Ekiti Queens Football Club has expressed sincere appreciation to their fans and supporters for casting 801 votes in favour of Ismail Zainab, who finished as the second-highest vote-getter for Matchday Five Top Performer. The club highlighted that the overwhelming backing from supporters underscores the passion and commitment of Ekiti United’s fan base in promoting their players and celebrating women’s football. Ismail Zainab’s performance during Matchday Five drew widespread recognition, with her efforts on the pitch contributing significantly to Ekiti Queens’ competitiveness in the league. Naimot Kazeem of Osun Babes ultimately claimed the top spot with 1,117 votes, while Abasiofon Uwah of Rivers Angels and Ayatsea Hembafan of Nasarawa Amazons also featured among the top nominees. Ekiti United reaffirmed their commitment to supporting their players and encouraging fan engagement as a crucial...

  Defending Champions Oye LFC Set for Ikere LFC Test as Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup Resumes The Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup, a leading grassroots football competition in Ekiti State, is set to resume with Match Week Two following a short break, as organizers reaffirm their commitment to sustaining the tournament’s developmental objectives. The competition, instituted in honour of Professor Akin Oyebode and sponsored by his family with notable involvement from Ekiti State Commissioner for Finance, Honorable Akintunde Oyebode, has continued to provide a credible platform for the discovery and grooming of football talents across the State. Beyond players, the tournament has created opportunities for coaches, referees, and football administrators, with previous editions producing prospects who have progressed into recognized football academies, including Beyond Limits Football Academy. After an entertaining opening round held in December 2025, Match Week Two fixtures have been scheduled for ...

  EKITI QUEENS CLAIM SEASON’S FIRST WIN WITH HARD-FOUGHT ABEOKUTA TRIUMPH Tosin Popoola  Ekiti Queens Football Club recorded their first victory of the Nigeria Women Football League season with a narrow 1–0 win over Naija Ratels Football Club at the MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on a tense matchday encounter. According to Team Media Officer Tosin Popoola, the fixture was relocated from the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti by the League Body following crowd trouble in an earlier match, resulting in a contest played before a sparse gathering of supporters. Naija Ratels applied early pressure in the opening half, probing repeatedly for an opening goal, but the Baoress Babes stayed compact and disciplined at the back to deny their opponents any breakthrough. Ekiti Queens responded with attacking intent as Forwards Seun Fakunle, Amarachi Okoronkwo, and Joke Adeyemo led several forward moves, yet their combined efforts failed to produce a goal before halftime. ...

EKITI QUEENS BRACE FOR CRUCIAL SECOND STANZA OF NWFL SEASON (TOSIN J. POPOOLA) As the new year unfolds, Ekiti Queens Football Club have declared their readiness to confront the challenges of the second stanza of the Nigeria Women Football League, with renewed focus and determination ahead of the decisive phase of the campaign. Speaking during the team’s first official training session of the year at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti, Head Coach Jacob Vandy said the players were in good physical and mental condition, stressing that the squad had returned with a clear sense of purpose for the months ahead. Vandy noted that despite the difficulties encountered in 2025, the Baoress Babes had resolved to approach the second stanza of the NWFL with confidence and resilience, adding that the experiences from the first half of the season had strengthened the team’s resolve rather than weakened it. The coach also acknowledged the setback arising from the league body’s decision to relocate...

  EKITI UNITED PLAYERS HONOUR MEDIA OFFICER WITH SPECIAL GIFT FOR OUTSTANDING SERVICE Akinyemi (1st left), Benteke (2cnd left). Ekiti United Football Club players have presented a full tracksuit to their Media Officer, Blessing Akinyemi, popularly known as Benteke, in recognition of his professionalism throughout 2025. The presentation took place at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti, with team captain Seyi Akinyemi leading his two deputies in acknowledging their Benteke. Players expressed immense joy and admiration for Akinyemi, highlighting his dedication in promoting both the team and its players throughout the year. Described as yellow on deep blue, the tracksuit was presented as a token of appreciation for Benteke's unwavering commitment to managing the club’s media affairs. Ekiti United, currently competing in the Nigeria National League, commended its media officer for consistently upholding high standards in communication and representation of the team. The team emphas...

Ikole Unleashes Goal Storm as Oyebode Cup Opens with 21-Goal Frenzy IKOLE LFC STARTING XI The 2025 Professor Akin Oyebode Cup burst into life at the refurbished Ikole Township Stadium as football fans were treated to a breathtaking opening day that produced an astonishing 21 goals from four matches. Home side Ikole LFC youth team set the early pace with a commanding 5-0 victory over Moba LFC youth team, delighting the crowd with sharp passing, relentless pressure, and clinical finishing from start to finish. IREPODUN STARTING XI  The most ruthless display came from Irepodun Ifelodun LFC youth team, who tore Ilejemeje LFC youth team apart in a stunning 7-0 rout that showcased pace, precision, and an appetite for goals rarely seen at this level. Gbonyin Aiyekire LFC youth team also joined the avalanche with a convincing 5-0 triumph over Emure LFC youth team, as the match followed the day’s familiar script of dominance and unchallenged attacking play. GBONYIN STARTING XI  Th...

  Akin Oyebode Cup 2025 Set For Expanded Fourth Edition With Strong Corporate Backing The 2025 edition of the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup is expected to be its most expansive yet, as major corporate partners, including global sports analytics platform Sofascore and youth development firm Phoenix Athletics Sports Limited, reaffirmed their commitment ahead of the tournament’s kick off on Wednesday, December 17. Sofascore will support the competition with advanced digital coverage, providing real time match data and detailed statistics that will be accessible to its global audience of more than 30 million users worldwide. Phoenix Athletics Sports Limited is offering key operational and technical support, drawing on its experience in talent identification and player management to help guide outstanding grassroots players toward professional football opportunities. Support from other partners, including the Red Cross International, Ekiti State Football Association, Ekiti State Sports Eco...

OFFICIAL JOINT STATEMENT MEDIA OFFICES OF EKITI UNITED FC AND EKITI QUEENS FC The Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado Ekiti will host a full day of football on Wednesday, December 10, as two representative teams of Ekiti State feature in consecutive league fixtures. Ekiti United FC will face Solution FC in a Nigeria National League Match Day 5 encounter scheduled for 1.00 p.m. Later in the day, Ekiti Queens FC will play Edo Queens FC in a Nigeria Women Football League Match Day 3 fixture beginning at 4.00 p.m. The two clubs invite football supporters and residents across Ekiti State to attend the matches and give their backing throughout the day. Admission into the stadium remains free. These fixtures provide an opportunity to demonstrate public support for the clubs that represent the Ekiti State Government. A strong turnout will help create a unified atmosphere and reinforce the growing profile of football in the state. Signed Tosin J. Popoola Media Officer, Ekiti Queens FC Blessing Akinye...

Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup 2025 Organizers Announce December 17th Kick-Off Date at Newly Refurbished Ikole Stadium The Organizing Committee for the 4th edition of the Prof. Akin Oyebode Cup have confirmed that the highly anticipated grassroots football competition will officially kick off on Wednesday, December 17, 2025. The prestigious tournament will be hosted at the state-of-the-art AstroTurf pitch of the newly refurbished Ikole Township Stadium in Ikole Ekiti. "We are thrilled to confirm the December 17th start date," stated a representative for the Organizing Committee.  "The use of the newly laid AstroTurf pitch ensures the highest standard of play for our young athletes. This year's competition is set to be a proper football fiesta, celebrating talent and community development across Ekiti State." Furthermore, the official tournament draws will be held today by noon, marking the final procedural step before the competition begins. In a move to streamline logi...

EKITI QUEENS FC SPRINGS BIRTHDAY PRANK ON COACH VANDY Coach, Ekiti Queens FC, JACOB VANDY The Players and Backroom Staff of Ekiti Queens Football Club marked the Birthday of Head Coach Jacob Vandy with a carefully planned Prank that reflected the Team’s Unity and their Admiration for his Leadership. The Surprise began at the Ado Ekiti Training Ground after a Proposal supported by Team Manager Felicia Okunola encouraged the Squad to create a Memorable Gesture for the Celebrant. Coach Vandy walked into the Facility and was confronted with a fabricated Report claiming that the Team had unanimously chosen to embark on a Strike without notifying him beforehand. The unexpected Announcement created a moment of Confusion for the Coach, who tried to understand the sudden Claim while observing the unusually tense Mood among the Players. The Squad eventually broke into Laughter as they ran toward him with Loud Chants, splashing Water on him and revealing that the entire Scenario had been arr...

  Ekiti Queens FC opened their Nigeria Women Football League 2025/26 Season with a narrow 2-1 loss to Heartland FC at the Dan Anyiam Stadium in Owerri Imo State, after a demanding first half in which all three goals were scored and the visitors were unable to reclaim their early advantage. The Baoress Babes made a bright start and moved ahead in the third minute when Amarachi Okoronkwo produced a composed finish that rewarded their early attacking rhythm. Heartland FC levelled the match in the thirteenth minute through a penalty converted by Chizoba Johnson, a moment that shifted control and placed greater pressure on the Ekiti back line. The Hosts completed the turnaround before the interval when Emmanuella James struck the home side’s second goal, leaving Ekiti Queens in pursuit of an equaliser throughout the second half. Despite steady movement in midfield and a series of late attempts, the visitors were kept at bay by firm defending from Heartland FC. Coach Jacob Vandy enco...