Oyo FA Chairman Odeniran lauds fair play as Iwalewa FA secures NLO 2

Oyo State Football Association Oyo FA Chairman, His Royal Majesty Oba James Odeniran, praised the spirit of fair play demonstrated during the recently concluded state play off, which saw Iwalewa Football Academy of Saki secure a spot in Nationwide League 2. Iwalewa FA triumphed over Sult De King of Ibadan in a closely contested 3-2 aggregate victory. The decisive second leg occurred at the Lekan Salami Stadium in Ibadan, following an exciting 2-2 draw in the first leg at Irewole Stadium, Saki.



Oba Odeniran, a former FIFA referee and match commissioner, commended both teams for their outstanding performances and adherence to fair competition principles. He emphasized the importance of transparent officiating and ensuring a level playing field, which he believes is critical to the growth of football in Oyo State. Oba Odeniran congratulated Iwalewa FA on their determination and hard work, which earned them promotion, reiterating the Oyo FA’s commitment to unbiased competition management.



Stakeholders and fans praised the Oyo FA’s leadership for their professionalism and support of grassroots football, attributing the rise of private clubs and the improvement in football standards across the state to the association's transparent processes.



Editorial



The success of Iwalewa Football Academy’s promotion to Nationwide League 2, achieved under the watchful eye of Oyo FA Chairman Oba James Odeniran, is a shining example of what can be accomplished when fair play and transparency are prioritized. We commend the leadership of the Oyo FA for fostering an environment where teams can compete on merit, free from bias, and where grassroots football continues to flourish.