“A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country.” These timeless words find fresh expression as Otunba Akin Akinbobola, a renowned football and sports development technocrat, gains yet another national recognition.
The National Sports Commission has appointed him as a member of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the upcoming Combined Confederation of African Athletics (CAA) U-18/U-20 Championship, scheduled to take place in Abeokuta in July 2025.
The Egbe Atunluse Initiatives, a progressive socio-political movement in Ondo State, warmly congratulates its Chairman on this prestigious appointment. The group described the honour as a well-earned acknowledgment of Otunba Akinbobola’s longstanding and tireless contributions to sports development, especially football, in Nigeria and across Africa.
While his efforts may sometimes be overlooked within his immediate environment, the broader sporting ecosystem continues to celebrate his visionary leadership and unparalleled expertise.
It is worth recalling that Akinbobola was once specifically selected by the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to revive the fortunes of Sunshine Stars Football Club at a time when the club was battling relegation. Under his strategic leadership—during the period when the current governor served as Deputy—Sunshine Stars witnessed a revival and a return to competitive relevance. Unfortunately, his exit from that role marked a downward spiral for the club, further underscoring how true leadership often goes unappreciated until its absence is deeply felt.
The group emphasized that this recent appointment reaffirms Akinbobola’s stature as a towering figure in Nigerian sports administration.
“He is a transformational leader whose contributions to sports, particularly football, cut across regional and national boundaries,” the statement noted. “His return to the national spotlight is not merely a reflection of past achievements, but a renewed mandate to serve—a call to duty that only someone of his calibre can truly fulfil.”
Egbe Atunluse concluded by encouraging young sports administrators to learn from Akinbobola’s exemplary journey—defined by innovation, integrity, and an unwavering commitment to development. The group also prayed for divine wisdom and strength for him as he joins other esteemed Nigerians in hosting this continental sporting event.
Sikiru Adetona
Director General, Egbe Atunluse Initiatives
Atunluse Initiatives Media Team
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