Ikere-Ekiti, the second largest town in Ekiti State, witnessed a historic event on Wednesday as a private mini stadium was commissioned by the Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake.
The mini stadium, which has a capacity of 1,500 spectators, is mainly designed for soccer and was founded by a 27-year-old entrepreneur, Prince Olumide Adegboye.
The project was delivered by Olukismet Foundation, a non-governmental organization that aims to empower youths and promote sports development in the state.
The foundation is led by Prince Adegboye, who is also the CEO of Olukismet Group, a conglomerate of businesses in various sectors.
The commissioning ceremony was attended by the State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, who was represented by his deputy, Mrs. Monisade Afuye, and other dignitaries.
Governor Oyebanji commended the foundation for initiating the project, which he said was a good example of a Public Private Partnership (PPP). He assured that his administration would continue to provide an enabling environment for businesses, talents and resources to flourish in the state.
The Minister of Solid Minerals, Dele Alake, who was the Special Guest of Honour, praised Prince Adegboye for his vision and passion for youth development.
He said that the mini stadium would provide a platform for young people in Ikere and across the state to develop their sporting and football skills. He also urged other well-meaning individuals and organizations to emulate the foundation and invest in the development of the state.
The Commissioner for Youth Development, Adedayo Gold, who also graced the occasion, said that the mini stadium would boost sports development, especially football, in the state. He said that the state government was committed to supporting and nurturing young talents in various fields of endeavour.
The mini stadium is equipped with modern facilities, such as a standard pitch, floodlights, dressing rooms, restrooms, and a media centre. It is also open to the public for recreational and professional purposes. The foundation plans to organize regular tournaments and training programmes for youths in the state.
