Lekan Yusuf, Ibadan
Crown Solicitors emerged champions of the 2025 Nigeria Bar Association (NBA) Afe Babalola Annual Football Competition, held on Tuesday at the historic Olubadan Stadium, Ibadan, as legal practitioners converged for celebration of sportsmanship and camaraderie.
The keenly contested tournament attracted several teams from within the legal profession and featured prominent dignitaries, including the NBA President, Rotimi Ali, who graced the event alongside other senior members of the bar.
At the end of the competition, Crown Solicitors lifted the trophy, while the Afe Babalola team finished as runners-up. The Makanjuola Esan team secured third place following a walkover against the Lateef Fagbemi football team.
Speaking on the significance of the annual event, the Chairman of the NBA Ibadan Branch, Mr. Ibrahim Lawal, said the tournament was designed to promote physical fitness and unity among lawyers.
“Most of the time, we sit in our offices for long hours, and that affects our mobility. A sporting activity like this energises the body and keeps us in good shape,” Lawal explained.
“That is why Aare Afe Babalola decided to sponsor this programme. It has become a yearly event that encourages sporting activities and brings all of us together, beyond the courtroom.”
Lawal noted that the competition has become more competitive over the years, with increasing enthusiasm from both participants and spectators.
“Every year, the tournament gets more competitive. You can see the passion and commitment of our members, including those who came to watch. It has achieved its purpose of fostering unity and healthy rivalry,” he said, expressing optimism for better organisation and wider participation in future editions.
Reacting to their victory, Lawal, whose team emerged winners, described the moment as deeply fulfilling.
“This is my fourth time participating in this competition, and finally lifting the trophy is a great feeling. The last time, we came third, so this victory is very special,” he said.
Also speaking, the captain of Crown Solicitors, Adeboye Adetayo, praised both teams for an intense and entertaining match. “It was a very tough game with high intensity. We appreciate everyone who came out to support us,” he said, adding that the team would work hard to defend the title next year.
The sponsor of the tournament, Aare Afe Babalola, SAN, represented by Adebayo Adenipekum SAN expressed satisfaction with the outcome of the event and urged participants to embrace the spirit of sportsmanship.
“It is not about winning at all costs. I congratulate those who won and those who participated. Even those who could not participate should be encouraged to join in future editions,” he said.
