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.

Celebrating Six Years of Visionary Leadership: Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III of Saki

Amofin Beulah Adeoye, president of the Beulah Adeoye Foundation, joins a wide circle of well-wishers, traditional subjects, and admirers from Saki land and beyond in commemorating the sixth anniversary of the distinguished reign of Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Oyedepo III, the Okere of Saki. His tenure has been marked by purposeful governance and a deep commitment to the welfare of his people.

A Reign Rooted in Wisdom and Unity

Since ascending the throne, Oba Surv. Khalid has exemplified leadership characterized by profound wisdom, humility, and an unwavering dedication to fostering unity and progress within Saki land. Amofin Adeoye highlights the monarch’s unique ability to honor ancestral customs while embracing innovative approaches that promote social cohesion and community development.

The Palace as a Hub for Community Dialogue and Development

Described as a beacon of constructive engagement, the Okere’s palace serves as a vital forum where ideas for the advancement of Saki land are exchanged and nurtured. The monarch’s ongoing support for humanitarian initiatives and advocacy programs aimed at uplifting vulnerable populations underscores his compassionate leadership style.

Legacy of Stability and Service

Reflecting on six years of stewardship, Amofin Adeoye emphasizes that this milestone is more than a mere passage of time; it represents a legacy of enduring service, divine favor, and the fostering of harmony among the diverse communities within Saki land. This period has seen significant strides toward stability and collective progress.

Wishes for Continued Health and Prosperity

In closing, Amofin Adeoye prays for the continued good health and longevity of Oba Khalid Oyeniyi Olabisi Ilugbemidepo Oyedepo III, hoping he will witness many more years of transformative leadership and the ongoing flourishing of Saki land under his guidance.

Empowering Nigeria’s Livestock Sector: Launch of Advanced Ruminant Artificial Insemination Training

In a significant step towards revolutionizing livestock farming and bolstering Nigeria’s food security, Prymal Livestock Solutions Ltd, in partnership with the Global Ag Alliance from the USA, inaugurated the Advanced Ruminant Artificial Insemination Training at the University of Ibadan’s Dairy Unit on Tuesday.

Comprehensive Four-Day Practical Training for Livestock Professionals

Scheduled from December 16 to 19, this intensive four-day workshop aims to provide farmers, veterinarians, and livestock experts with practical, hands-on knowledge to enhance the productivity of cattle, sheep, and goats throughout Nigeria. The program is designed to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and real-world application in animal breeding.

Addressing Nigeria’s Livestock Productivity Challenges

Prof. Fisayo Leigh, CEO of Prymal Livestock Solutions Ltd and a renowned Theriogenology specialist, highlighted the critical need for capacity building in the sector. “Nigeria and much of Africa are endowed with abundant livestock, fertile land, and dedicated farmers. However, productivity remains significantly below what it could be. The issue isn’t the number of animals but the lack of practical, field-ready expertise,” he explained during the opening remarks.

He further stressed that the training emphasizes skill acquisition over passive learning. “More than 80% of this course is practical. Participants will master not only the techniques of artificial insemination but also the strategic timing, ethical considerations, and sustainable practices necessary for profitable livestock breeding. Certificates awarded will reflect proficiency, not mere attendance, because the industry values competence,” Prof. Leigh added.

Curriculum Highlights and Network Launch

The curriculum encompasses cutting-edge reproductive technologies, semen handling protocols, estrus synchronization, genetic improvement methods, and sustainable business frameworks. Additionally, the event marked the launch of the Prymal Alumni Network, a platform designed to foster a nationwide community of skilled livestock professionals committed to advancing the sector.

Government and Academic Endorsements

Dr. Ibikunle Akanbi, representing the Director of Veterinary Services in Oyo State, reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting initiatives that enhance livestock productivity and food security. He officially declared the training open and praised the collaboration between Prymal Livestock Solutions Ltd and its partners.

Prof. Tolulope Ososanya, Dean of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Ibadan, underscored the importance of genetic improvement in livestock. “Nigeria’s cattle population is approximately 45 million, yet milk yields remain low, often under two liters per day due to indigenous breeds. This program empowers farmers to utilize semen from superior breeds to create hybrids adapted to local environments, effectively narrowing the gap between potential and actual production,” he noted.

Similarly, Prof. Babalola Olugasa, Dean of the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Ibadan, emphasized the transformative potential of the training. “By mastering modern artificial insemination techniques, participants can unlock a largely untapped industry, making livestock farming both sustainable and lucrative across Nigeria,” he said.

Global Collaboration for Sustainable Livestock Development

Wout Vandergoot from Global Ag Alliance, USA, highlighted the role of international partnerships in advancing livestock productivity. “Adopting modern reproductive technologies is vital for increasing output. When combined with ethical and environmentally responsible practices, African farmers can enhance productivity while ensuring animal welfare,” he remarked.

Dr. Bolaji Olaomo, Chairman of the Nigerian Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Oyo State Branch, described the initiative as timely and impactful. “This training equips ruminant farmers and veterinarians with essential skills to boost productivity. Collaborative efforts like this are key to sustainable growth in Nigeria’s livestock industry,” he stated.

Student Perspectives: Future Leaders in Livestock Innovation

Final-year students awarded scholarships by Prymal Livestock Solutions Ltd expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity to participate. Florence Okedokun, an Animal Health Technology student at Oyo State College of Agriculture and Technology, Igbo-Ora, shared, “This training has broadened my understanding of artificial insemination’s potential to transform local livestock farming. It’s about grasping both the science and strategic application.”

Ademola Tiamiyu, a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine candidate from Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria, added, “Gaining practical experience through this program equips me to contribute meaningfully to modernizing Nigeria’s agricultural sector and enhancing food production.”

Proven Track Record and Broad Participation

Prymal Livestock Solutions Ltd has a history of empowering farmers, professionals, and agribusiness investors across West Africa by promoting advanced livestock genetics and reproductive management techniques that drive productivity, profitability, and sustainability.

The training attracted a diverse group of attendees, including livestock farmers, veterinarians, agricultural extension officers, researchers, government agricultural agency representatives, students, and Prymal staff, all united in advancing Nigeria’s livestock industry.

Ogbomoso Ignites Cultural Spirit with Second Annual Cradles Carnival

On Thursday, the historic town of Ogbomoso burst into vibrant life as the second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival commenced with a spectacular display of traditional drums, captivating dancers, and mesmerizing masquerades. This event marks the beginning of several days dedicated to celebrating the town’s rich cultural heritage, boosting tourism, and invigorating local economic activities.

Vibrant Festivities at the Heart of Ogbomoso

The Soun of Ogbomosoland’s Palace and the Ogbomoso Town Hall became hubs of cultural expression, alive with the sounds of traditional drumming and performances by cultural groups from across the region. These dynamic presentations highlighted the deep-rooted history and identity that define the people of Ogbomoso.

Prior to the official opening at the Town Hall, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, Orumogege III, alongside his council of chiefs, toured the exhibition center. There, they explored an array of indigenous delicacies such as Sapala, Igbalo, Sakada, Amala, and Moinmoin, showcasing the town’s diverse and flavorful culinary traditions.

Official Opening and Cultural Significance

In his opening remarks, Oba Ghandi emphasized the carnival’s role as a catalyst for cultural renaissance, social cohesion, and economic advancement. He highlighted how the festival has evolved into a pivotal platform for preserving Ogbomoso’s cultural values while enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.

The monarch also praised the cyclists who undertook the historic journey from Ogbomoso to Iseyin, an event integrated into the carnival’s activities. Additionally, he announced a philanthropic gesture to support education by donating school bags to pupils in public schools throughout Ogbomoso.

Insightful Lecture on Yoruba Culture and Language

Earlier in the day, Chief Ifayemi Elebuibon, a distinguished cultural scholar and Ifa priest known as Araba Osogbo, delivered an enlightening lecture titled “Religion and Culture.” He underscored the distinctiveness of the Yoruba language, which stands out among the world’s more than 7,000 languages.

Chief Elebuibon urged the Yoruba people to steadfastly uphold and promote their cultural heritage, emphasizing that a strong cultural identity is essential for unity, sustainable development, and maintaining global relevance. He lauded Oba Ghandi Olaoye’s intentional efforts to rejuvenate local traditions, particularly through initiatives like the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival that celebrate indigenous customs and cuisine.

Dynamic Performances and Community Engagement

The carnival featured an array of colorful masquerade displays and traditional dances, with performers moving rhythmically to the beats of talking drums, bata, and gangan. These performances captivated audiences, drawing enthusiastic applause from visitors, tourists, and cultural aficionados alike.

Strategic Vision for Ogbomoso’s Cultural and Economic Growth

Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi, Chairman of the Planning Committee, articulated the festival’s objectives: to strengthen communal bonds, stimulate economic development, and elevate Ogbomoso’s status as a premier cultural and tourism hub within Nigeria and internationally.

He noted that the carnival has garnered national attention and sponsorship, creating valuable opportunities for local entrepreneurs, artisans, food vendors, and creatives to showcase the town’s cultural richness to a broader audience.

Odebunmi encouraged all Ogbomoso natives to actively engage in the ongoing festivities, which continue through Friday and culminate on Monday, December 22.

Excitement Builds for the Fagade Unity Cup Final in Ibadan

This Saturday at 3pm, the Olubadan Stadium’s main bowl in Iyaganku, Ibadan, will host the thrilling conclusion of the statewide football tournament sponsored by Dr. Abisoye Fagade, the Director-General of the National Institute for Hospitality and Tourism, Abuja (NIHOTOUR).

About the Tournament and Its Origins

Launched in October, the inaugural edition of this annual football festival is organized by the Oyo-Si-Maa-Dun Foundation, an initiative founded by Dr. Fagade, a prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) leader and the esteemed Aare Asojuoba of Ibadanland. The competition has brought together talented soccer teams from various local government areas across Oyo State, fostering community spirit and sporting excellence.

Teams Set for the Final Showdown

According to a press release from Dr. Fagade’s media team, the third-place playoff will see the teams representing Ona-Ara and Surulere local government areas face off. Meanwhile, the championship match will feature the finalists from Ibadan South West and Irepo local government councils. The event’s chairman is Chief Bayo Oyero, the Aare Mayegun of Ibadanland and former National President of the Central Council of Ibadan Indigenes (CCII).

Philanthropy Through Sports: The OSMD Foundation’s Impact

This multi-million Naira football initiative is part of a broader series of social welfare projects championed by Dr. Fagade via the OSMD Foundation. Beyond sports, the foundation is renowned for its extensive community support programs, including food distribution drives, medical outreach campaigns, scholarship awards, and empowerment schemes aimed at uplifting disadvantaged populations throughout southwestern Nigeria.

Community Invitation and Event Highlights

The historic Olubadan Stadium will open its gates to sports lovers and the general public, promising an afternoon filled with exhilarating football action. Attendees, including players, officials, and fans, will have the chance to win various prizes and gifts. The organizers warmly invite all APC supporters and residents of Oyo State to join this vibrant celebration of sport and unity, which is poised to become a cherished annual tradition.