State Workers Defeat Local Government Counterparts 2–1 in Novelty Match

Workers in the mainstream Civil Service of Ondo State on Wednesday defeated their counterparts in the Local Government Service by 2–1 in a novelty football match held as part of activities marking the 2025 Ondo State Public Service Week.

The match, played at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, attracted civil servants and political appointees who came out in large numbers to show solidarity with the state workforce.

The ceremonial kick-off was performed by the Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, before both teams—representing the State Civil Service and the Local Government Service—commenced the friendly encounter.

The Local Government team, captained by Dr. (Mrs) Mercy Femi-Idris of the Local Government Pension Department, opened scoring in the 35th minute of play.

However, the State Civil Service team, which paraded senior officials including Chief Segun Odusanya, Mrs. Funke Dare-Atunse, Acting Solicitor-General Mr. Ayodeji Ogundare, and Mrs. Morayo Bayo-Philip, equalised in the 40th minute and sealed victory with a decisive goal in the 49th minute to end the match 2–1.

Earlier in the day, the workers had embarked on a health walk that began at Adegbemile Junction, Alagbaka, through Oba Adesida Road, Akure. The exercise, which started as early as 6:30 a.m., featured aerobic sessions and physical fitness drills as part of efforts to promote healthy living among public servants.

The Public Service Week celebration continues with other activities lined up to foster camaraderie and highlight the contributions of the state workforce to governance and development.