Olamilekan Folayemi
History was on Saturday made in Ekiti State when members of the AllStars International headed by its president, Dr Sola Afolayan donated specially designed benches to the Management of the Ekiti State Sports Council.
President of the AllStars, Dr Afolayan said the gifts which cost them quite a lot of money were part of the contributions of the group of retired Sportsmen to the develoment of sports in the state.
He noted that the chairman of the Sports Council, Hon. Olusola Osetoba and the General Manager, Mr Adekunle Adeyemi had been so supportive towards the programs and activities of the AllStars, hence the need to reciprocate with a befitting donation.
Chairman, Board of Trustees of the AllStars International, chief Oluwole Oloworeemo described the unity of purpose, understanding and cooperation among members as exceptional.
Chief Oloworeemo said the money spent on the project were contributed by every member in appreciation of the opportunity granted the AllStars to make use of the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium football pitch for their weekend training and friendly matches.
He also said efforts were on to attract a partnership deal with a private concern to help in the maintenance of the football pitch with a view to giving it an all year round lush green and attractive touch.
Receiving the benches on behalf of the state government, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon. Micheal Awopetu praised the AllStars International for the rare and kind gesture.
Hon. Awopetu described the AllStars as worthy ambassadors of the sports sector in Ekiti State who have been using their mental, physical and financial resources to impact on the growth of Sports.
He noted that the synergy between the Ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the Sports Council had resulted in numerous positive development adding that management of both bodies would consolidate on it.
The Commissioner took time to highlight some of the achievements of the Dr Kayode Fayemi led administration in the Youth and sports sector including the employment of some members of the AllStars International in various capacities in the state football teams, qualification of Ekiti United FC for the NNL Super 8 last season, payment of cash rewards for outstanding athletes who represented the state at National and international sporting competitions as well as endorsement of a Youth Policy in the State among others.
On behalf of the state governor, the Commissioner thanked the AllStars International for their support urging other groups and corporate bodies to emulate such gesture.
The obviously elated chairman of the Sports Council, Hon. Olusola Osetoba, the General Manager, Mr Adekunle Adeyemi and members of staff of the Sports Council were also at the official presentation of the reserved benches which included two for both home and away teams as well as one for the medical team.