Osun Intercollegiate Games 2024: The Battle For Supremacy Begins On Wednesday.
The press briefing to herald the much-anticipated 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games was held in grand style on Monday at the Fountain University, Osogbo.
The event, which set the stage for the upcoming games, attracted an impressive array of dignitaries, including top officials from the Osun sports and education sectors. Among them were the acting Permanent Secretary of the Osun State Ministry of Sports, Mr. Layi Adesiyan, who represented the Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Sports , Prince Kola Adewusi and representatives from the Ministry of Education.
The Chairman of the Osun State Tertiary Institutions Games Association (OSTIGA), Comrade Agboola Akinbode, also graced the occasion. He was joined by Professor F. Sule, who heads the Accreditation Committee for the 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games, Alhaji Ganiyu Adedokun and Mr. Ademola Adigun, the Chairman of the Osun Athletics Association. Their presence underscored the significance of this event in the state’s sporting calendar.
In his opening remarks, Mr. Layi Adesiyan described the games as a pivotal moment for youth development in Osun State. “Thirteen institutions will participate in six sports over the next two weeks,” he announced with palpable enthusiasm. “This is not just about competition; it is about fostering unity, resilience, and sportsmanship among our students. We urge everyone, parents, educators, and sports enthusiasts, to support this noble initiative.”
Mr. Adesiyan went on to highlight the immense efforts that had gone into the planning of the games. He applauded the dedication of the organizing committees, emphasizing their role in laying a solid foundation for what promises to be a landmark event.
Echoing this sentiment, Mr. Akinbode, the Chairman of OSTIGA, provided a behind-the-scenes look at the rigorous preparations. “We have been working tirelessly for weeks, coordinating with various institutions and subcommittees to ensure a smooth and successful event,” he said. “From logistics to security, everything has been meticulously planned. Now, we are ready to see our hard work come to life.”
Professor F. Sule, head of the Accreditation Committee, added his voice, noting the robust accreditation process designed to ensure fairness and transparency. “We are committed to upholding the integrity of these games,” he said. “Every athlete and official has been thoroughly vetted to maintain the highest standards of competition.”
The 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games will feature six sports: athletics, football, football, table tennis, badminton, Scrabble and chess. Each event promises to be a showcase of the diverse talents harbored within the state’s tertiary institutions. The games will also provide an avenue for scouts and talent managers to identify and nurture future stars.
“This is more than a sporting event; it is a celebration of our collective identity and an opportunity to inspire the next generation of leaders,” remarked Abdulganiyu Adedokun, Chairman Technical Committee.
With the kickoff slated for Wednesday, November 20th, and the games set to conclude on December 4th, excitement is reaching a fever pitch. The host, Obafemi Awolowo University and Federal Polytechnic Ede, has been a hive of activity, with final preparations in full swing. The institution has promised an unforgettable opening ceremony, featuring cultural displays, musical performances, and a parade of athletes.
In his closing remarks, team lead Ace Sports Olayiwola Olafiranye , Organisers of rrh the games, called on all stakeholders to rally behind the games. “This is our moment to shine,” he said. “Let us come together to celebrate our youth, our culture, and our shared aspirations. Let the 2024 Osun Intercollegiate Games be a testament to what we can achieve when we unite for a common goal.”
As the countdown to November 20th continues, the entire state watches with bated breath, ready to cheer on its young athletes and celebrate the spirit of sportsmanship.
