Ondo FA AGA: Calls For Stadium Completion, Bus Support And Restoration Of Subvention
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The Ondo State Football Association (FA) convened its Board Meeting and Annual General Assembly (AGA) at Club Elan, bringing together key stakeholders in the football sector to review the Association’s activities and deliberate on strategies to further develop football across the state.
The meeting was presided over by the FA Chairman, Otunba Sunday Dele-Ajayi, and also marked one year in office of the current leadership of the Association.
Following extensive deliberations, the Assembly reached several resolutions aimed at strengthening football administration and development in Ondo State.
The Assembly first commended the Ondo State Government for its continued support towards sports development. Particular praise was given to the state’s performance at the Niger Delta Sports Festival, where Ondo State secured a gold medal in the male football category and a silver medal in the female event.
However, stakeholders expressed concern over the financial challenges currently facing the FA. The Assembly noted that the situation is largely due to the absence of major corporate organisations within the state capable of providing substantial sponsorship for football development.
In response to this challenge, members appealed to the State Government to restore the monthly subvention previously allocated to the FA. They stressed that such financial support would enable the Association to effectively implement its programmes and carry out its responsibilities.
The Assembly also appealed to the government to provide an 18-seater bus to support the transportation needs of teams participating in competitions and other football engagements across and beyond the state.
Furthermore, stakeholders urged the government to expedite work on the ongoing new stadium project, emphasizing that improved sports infrastructure is essential for the growth and sustainability of football in Ondo State.
On matters relating to football administration, the Assembly reviewed the report submitted by the Interim Committee of the Ondo State Football Coaches Association. After thorough consideration, the Board acknowledged that the committee had successfully resolved the crisis within the association. Consequently, the Interim Committee was directed to prepare to conclude its assignment and hand over to the substantive executives of the Coaches Association upon the expiration of its tenure so they can complete their term and conduct elections.
The Assembly also granted provisional approval to the newly formed Ondo State Football Club Owners’ Association. However, the leadership of the body was advised to liaise with the national body in order to develop and adopt appropriate statutes guiding its operations.
In addition, the Assembly approved that all the 18 Local Government Football Councils (LGFCs) must pay their annual affiliation fees to the FA. It was clearly stated that any council that fails to comply will be disqualified from participating in FA activities.
The meeting also resolved that all grassroots football tournaments and competitions within the state must be duly registered with the FA through their respective LGFCs, alongside the payment of the required registration fees.
The Assembly concluded by appreciating the presence and support of the visiting Chairmen of the South-West States Football Associations who attended the event, noting that their participation further strengthened collaboration and unity within the region’s football community.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
