Ileogbo United FC: A Renewed Path To Talents Discovery, Promotion By Ibraheem Alli

As an ardent lover of soccer, I cherish watching football talents. My strength for continuous attention is seeing talents growing. I feel sober when football talents are wasting. When I see talent, I cherish it. It’s one of the means I see God and appreciate His wonders.

In Ileogbo, there are many football talents. Some have wasted, many are wasting. My fathers, mothers, elder brothers and sisters have shared the stories of many of them. I know those alive are reading. I’ve cried for many. Oluaye, a world rated goal keeper was reigning during my days at Nawar Ul Deen Primary school, Ileogbo. Kazeem Elege Ara of Apeena was my mate and the Messi of Ileogbo at NUD between 1997-2000. He also reigned at Community High School, Ileogbo. Today, Kaso Elege ara is an Okada rider. When I clocked 28, Tunji Aye was the star of the moment. Ajala Azeez Senator, Crespo, Saicorn, Omilani, Asipa, Kolo were monumental football assets. I can’t say these talents are wasting because they still have the age and a golden opportunity has presented itself for them to shine again and better.

To the advantage of these assets, a Sports Academy of international standard containing pitch and pavilion was built in Ileogbo by Engr. Lanre Adeleke. The academy was well structured with all sports facilities to host National and international leagues. The pitch has catched the attention of the federal government and has been a tourist centre for all sport lovers. The facilities also includes a standard Golf Course of 18 holes.

Outside the facilities is the philanthropic gesture of the promoter. Currently, the academy has population of over 200 students, all on scholarship with boarding facilities and free meals.

The singular efforts of LSA’s unwavering dedication to sports promotion rejuvenated peoples interest in football. Not many of them have ever had the opportunity to play on a standard pitch let alone associating with coaches of international experience. Their sporting libido was further aggravated by the registration of Ileogbo United Football Club to participate in the NLO category competition. Despite the late registration, these talents are displaying rich football prowess.

LSA has provided the platform. The support and encouragement giving is superlative. My investigation revealed the players are collecting match allowances and getting free meals everyday at the academy. I have strong hope in the abilities of these players to rise and compete with international players. They have been encouraged, and they will shine. Ileogbo will rise to the global stage, in no distance time.

Ileogbo Football Club is a renewed path to talents discovery and promotion.