The atmosphere at the Soun Township Stadium, Ogbomoso, was electrifying on Sunday as football enthusiasts, supporters, and residents gathered in large numbers for the grand finale of the annual Babalaje Football Competition organised by the Babalaje of Ogbomosoland and Chairman of the Oyo State Project Performance Monitoring Agency, Hon. Muftau Open Salawu, FNSE, as part of activities marking his birthday celebration.
The football tournament, which commenced on April 5, featured 32 teams drawn from the five local government areas of Ogbomosoland — Ogbomoso North, Ogbomoso South, Oriire, Ogooluwa, and Surulere — showcasing budding talents and promoting grassroots football development across the zone.
At the end of an entertaining final encounter, Galaxy FC of Ogbomoso South emerged champions after a commanding 3-0 victory over Apex FA of Ogbomoso North. Star of Zayom from Oriire secured third position, while Shining Star of Surulere finished fourth.
For their triumph, Galaxy FC received a cash prize of ₦100,000 alongside a complete set of jerseys. Runners-up Apex FA went home with ₦80,000 and jerseys, while Star of Zayom earned ₦70,000. Fourth-placed Shining Star received ₦50,000 and jerseys.
In addition to the football spectacle, Hon. Open Salawu extended goodwill to the people through a raffle draw that benefited about 100 residents across the five local government areas. Each beneficiary received ₦5,000 as part of the birthday largesse sponsored by the celebrant.
Speaking during the event, Salawu reiterated his commitment to youth empowerment and grassroots sports development in Ogbomosoland, stressing that football remains a vital tool for promoting unity, discipline, mental wellness, and physical fitness among young people.
He further pledged continued support for outstanding talents discovered during the competition, assuring that promising players would be given opportunities and encouragement to pursue professional football careers.
The colourful event attracted football lovers, community leaders, political associates, and dignitaries from across Ogbomosoland, further underlining the growing popularity of the annual football competition.
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