In Honour of Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi (the ?jájá II) CFR, the Ooni of Ife, the President of the Nigeria Football Federation, Alhaji Ibrahim Gusau (MON) has announced 'The Challenge Cup' competition in Osun State.
The Championship that would be contested for by clubs in Osun State is tagged "Osun FA Ojaja U-17 Challenge Cup".
The Championship would serve as the Cup version of Osun State Football Associations Under-17 Youth League. All the 32 teams that participated in just concluded SmartCity Osun State Football League are eligible to participate in the 'Ojaja Cup'.
NFF top brass Alh. Gusau, who made the announcement at the Ooni's palace after witnessing the final of the SmartCity Osun State Football League 'Super 8'; won by Iwo United Football Club noted that, the soccer challenge is in honour of His Imperial Majesty and his love for grassroot developments.
"Nigeria Football Federations will host an Under 17 Football Championship in your honour annually to support grassroots football development in Osun State," he declared at the palace.
The imperial majesty admonished the President of Nigeria Football Federation to use his office to deepen the growth of the local football leagues.
"I am tired of all these up Blues, Gunners for Life by our youths. I want those things replaced with 'Up Shooting', 'Up Enyimba', Up 'Kano.Pillars', 'Up Osun Utd' and 'Up Remo Stars', with you and your brilliant board, I know you will use your good office to significantly change the narratives of nuances and sparkle up the local league." The custodian of Yoruba Culture and Tradition affirmed.
Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, the second Vice President of the Nigeria Football Federations NFF and all Chairmen of Football Associations in the South West accompanied Alhaji Gusau to the Ooni's palace.
Sola Fanawopo, the Chairman of Osun State Football Association thanked NFF President for the gesture and promised to put structure in place immediately for the hosting of the Championship this year.