The Sabo Stayte Association has officially commenced its intra-Ilupeju football competition, bringing together youths and children across the community in what organizers describe as a major grassroots sporting initiative aimed at fostering unity and development.
The tournament, which kicked off amid excitement and community participation, features 16 local teams drawn from the 65 Community Development Associations (CDAs) in the Sabo community, making it one of the largest grassroots football competitions in the area.
Speaking shortly after the kickoff of the tournament on Tuesday, the chairman of the association, Amb. Habeeb Whyte, said the competition stands out as one of the biggest community football engagements in Ogun State, emphasizing its scale and impact on youth and children participation in sports.
According to him, the initiative goes beyond football, describing it as a tool for social cohesion. “This competition is not just a game; it is a platform that unites youths together, and give hope for children ” he said.
Amb. Whyte further noted that the tournament is designed to promote values such as teamwork, discipline, and sportsmanship among participants, especially the younger generation who are actively involved in the competition.
He stressed that the association remains committed to using sports as a means of positive engagement in the community, adding that such programmes help to reduce social vices while encouraging talent discovery and youth empowerment.
Also speaking on the significance of the event, the chairman reaffirmed that the competition reflects the vision of the Sabo Stayte Association in driving grassroots development through inclusive activities that bring people together.
Amb. Habeeb Whyte added that the tournament will continue to grow in size and relevance in future editions, as more teams and communities are expected to participate in what he described as a “unifying sporting tradition” for Ilupeju and its environs".
