A former Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA), Dapo Ajibade, says the focus of football administration should extend beyond match results to sustainable development..
Ajibade, a football consultant who led the agency in 2017, said this on Friday in Akure after inspecting facilities at the agency.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ODSFA is the parent body of Sunshine Stars, Sunshine Queens and Sunshine Stars’ U-19 football teams in the state.
According to him, the agency’s mandate encompasses grassroots development, infrastructure, and long-term growth of football in the state.
“The football agency is not just about winning matches but about building structures that will sustain the game in Ondo State. What the chairman needs to achieve more is support, not needless distractions.
“Everyone may not like a leader, but people must understand that whoever God appoints should be supported so that progress can be made,” he said.
Ajibade praised the agency’s youth development initiatives, particularly the Under-19 team, which he described as one of the best in the country, as well as the performance and potential of the Sunshine Queens.
The former chairman, however, called on stakeholders and football enthusiasts in the state to support the current leadership, stressing that constructive engagement was essential for progress.
He noted that criticism without support could hinder development, adding that leadership required collective backing to succeed.
Ajibade also highlighted ongoing improvements at the agency’s hostel facility, describing it as a significant development that had eluded previous administrations.
He expressed optimism that Sunshine Stars Football Club would regain promotion to the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) next season if adequate support was sustained.
“The ongoing reforms and developmental efforts under the current leadership of the agency under Mr Divine Ogbonnaya is commendable,” he said.
Responding, the ODSFA Chairman, Divine Ogbonnaya, appreciated Ajibade for the visit and encouragement, reaffirming his commitment to football development in the state.
Ogbonnaya said his administration would continue to focus on initiatives that promote growth, while calling for genuine support from stakeholders.
He also expressed confidence that Sunshine Stars would secure promotion back to the topflight league.
