Ex-professionals launch grassroots football revival in Oyo
Former professional footballers from Ibadan have come together under the Ibadan Ex-Professional Footballers Association to launch a grassroots football development initiative aimed at reviving Oyo State’s legacy as a hub for football talent.
The Chairman of the association, Mr. Temitope Obideyi, disclosed this in an interview, stating that the initiative seeks to identify and nurture young talents, especially those from underprivileged backgrounds, and support their growth both in football and education.
“Oyo State was once a powerhouse for national team players, but that influence has faded,” Obideyi said. “About 90% of talented players come from poor backgrounds, so we’re uniting to find them, support them, and invest in both their football and education.”
The initiative will officially kick off with a novelty match on June 8, 2025, between Ibadan Ex-Professional Footballers based abroad and their counterparts at home. The event is being held in partnership with the Oyo State Government through the Ministry of Youth and Sports, and the Oyo State Football Association.
The Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, has been a key supporter of the initiative, offering logistical backing and coordination since its inception.
The association also plans to launch a statewide secondary school football tournament to scout for emerging talent and deepen football development at the grassroots level.
Prominent ex-internationals including Mutiu Adepoju, Duke Udi, Ike Shorunmu, Edith Agoye, Dimeji Lawal, Patrick Pascal, and Kabir Abubakar Zamora are backing the initiative and are expected to participate in the event.
According to Obideyi, the overall goal is to rekindle the golden era of Oyo football by investing in a sustainable grassroots system that will produce the next generation of national stars.
