National Principals Cup: Ogun wins South West Zonal finals

Director Grassroot Sports Development, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Coordinator of the National Principals Cup, Dr Demola Are in handshake with the players of Osun State. With him are Dr Bolaji Ojo-Oba and Dr Rafiu Ladipo. PHOTO: OLAWALE OLANIYAN

Ogun State on Sunday emerged the winner of this year’s edition National Principals Cup, South West Zone finals played at Obafemi Awolowo Stadium, Ibadan.

The representative of Ogun State, Orile Ilugun Comprehensive High School beat their counterpart from Osun State, Progressive Comprehensive High School 2-1 to reach the regional final scheduled for Abuja later this month.

Speaking after the match, the coach of the winning team, Mr Moses Adeyemi promised to represent their state, Ogun well at the regional final.

“We feel excited to have claimed the top prize and all we must thank Governor Dapo Abiodun for his support and our Principal for the gesture extended to us.

ALSO READ: Brightville College win Oyo National Principal’s Cup

“This is just the beginning of the competition as we are going to put more effort in playing better at the regional level. We have to work on our lapses before the competition and I believe we are winning the trophy for Ogun State.”

Also, the Director Grassroot Sports Development, Federal Ministry of Youth and Sports and the Coordinator of the National Principals Cup, Dr Demola Are said he was satisfied with the level of the competition at the zonal level saying the competition is expected to bring about the revival of the Cup in all the states of the federation.

“The children are happy to be part of the programme and this will definitely reduce youth recklessness, Nigeria will be much better for it, in terms of facilities development, creating awareness among the youth and in terms of opportunity to develop these younger athletes.

ALSO READ: Brightville College win Oyo National Principal’s Cup

“Kudos go to Minister of Youth and Sports, Mr Sunday Dare for bringing this up at the ministry, I can tell you Nigeria will not remain the same again from the introduction of these games.

Also, President General of the Nigeria Supporters Club, Dr Rafiu Ladipo said he wished to see the likes of Kanu Nwankwo, Austin Okocha, Segun Odegbami, Daniel Amokachi, Tajudeen Disu emerging after the competition.