By Ademola Babalola
The Comrade Niyi Alebiosu-led Sports Writers’ Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Oyo State Chapter on Thursday scored another first as it installed the state Governor, Senator Abiola Ajimobi as its grand patron.
The governor was decorated by the State SWAN Chairman, Alebiosu alongside other executives and members of the association during a well attended event held at Lekan Salami Sports Complex.
Several other events were held at the same venue to commemorate the governor’s 69th birthday celebration.
Among those events were the final match of Oyo State Governor’s Cup as well as a novelty match between the State Executive Council and Oyo State House of Assembly.
Alebiosu, a Nigerian Tribune editorial staff, said the investiture of the governor was to appreciate his contributions to sports development in the state.
He said the governor has been very supportive to Shooting Stars Sport Club (3SC) and Crown Football Club of Ogbomoso both owned by the state government as well Russia 2018 World Cup viewing centre set up by the governor
The SWAN Chairman also appreciated him for supporting the state contingent to the ongoing National Sports Festival in Abuja, where the contingents had secured several medals.
Meanwhile, players and management of 3SC also appreciated and honoured the governor for his unflinching support to the team.
Meanwhile the Brightsville College defeated Muslim Grammar School 5-4 in a penalty shoot out to emerge the 2018 winners of the governor’s cup.
Also, the State Executive Council team defeated Oyo State Assembly team 1-0 in a very exciting novelty match that saw the deputy governor as the goal keeper of the state executive team.
Ajimobi in his remark, said the series of activities to commemorate his 69th birthday would foster mutual understanding, love and peace.
The governor who expressed appreciation said that the better side would always emerge in competition be it sports or politics.
“For the past eight years, we have remained committed to peace and mutual relationship in the state. As you can see, our executives and lawmakers have exhibited so much love.
“Peace and security have been the major hallmark of our administration and we would is one thing we stood for and we will continue to guarantee this,” he said.
He promised to continue to support sports development in the state, appreciating all for the honour bestowed on him.
Hundreds of residents who had earlier staged a walk round the metropolis in honour of the governor had thronged the stadium to commemorate with the governor.
The fun-filled event was attended by several prominent citizens of the state as well as party stalwarts.
