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Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye’s Vision for Youth Empowerment Through Sports
His Imperial Majesty, the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, has once again underscored his dedication to nurturing sports as a catalyst for youth empowerment and communal harmony within Ogbomosoland. He highlighted the critical role that athletic activities play in fostering unity and social development among young people.
Highlights from the 2025 Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival Sporting Events
During the 2025 Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, the monarch took center stage at the Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament, an event that also featured the finals of several other sports competitions. The tournament, held at the Ogbomosoland Recreation Club, attracted golf enthusiasts from across Oyo State, making it a marquee event of the carnival.
In addition to inaugurating the golf tournament with an official tee-off, Oba Ghandi actively engaged in other games such as table tennis and scrabble, earning admiration from both participants and onlookers for his hands-on involvement.
Promoting Grassroots Sports and Youth Participation
Addressing the assembled athletes and supporters, Oba Ghandi emphasized the importance of sustaining these sporting initiatives beyond the carnival period. He pledged ongoing support from his palace to encourage youth involvement and the growth of sports at the grassroots level throughout the historic town.
He further elaborated that sports serve not only as a means to enhance physical health but also as a platform to instill discipline, teamwork, and constructive social engagement among young individuals.
Looking Ahead: Awards and Recognition
The tournament concluded with plans to honor exceptional performers and winners with prizes and accolades, reinforcing the competitive spirit and rewarding dedication. This approach aligns with broader efforts to elevate sports as a key avenue for youth development in the region.
Recent studies show that youth sports participation in Nigeria has increased by over 15% in the past two years, reflecting a growing recognition of its benefits in community building and personal growth. Initiatives like the Oba Ghandi Golf Tournament exemplify this positive trend.
