By Gbenga Sodeinde
It was a memorable outing on Tuesday when a former player of Nigeria’s National Basketball and American NBA player, Olumide Oyedeji addressed members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) Ekiti State chapter.
The Basketball Legend who was a guest at the SWAN interactive program held at the VIP Stand , Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado took time to reel out his numerous efforts at attracting more interest to the game of Basketball in Nigeria despite little or no sponsorship support.
Oyedeji said government at all levels needed to invest more funds in other sports where more favourable results could be guaranteed rather than over- concentrate on the game of football which currently enjoys over- concentration.
He said if the game of Basketball could be given 10% of the funds allocated to Football, more future stars would be discovered and exported.
Oyedeji who was in Ekiti state to launch his private Basketball camp initiative urged philanthropists and corporate bodies to complement governments’ efforts at using sports to empower the youths in the country.
The ibadan born OAU Alumnus said thousands of youths in basketball had benefitted through his private Basketball initiative for up and coming players adding that the 2021 Olumide Oyedeji Under 17 Rising Stars Basketball Championship dunking off on Friday December 3 at the Teslim Balogun Indoor Sports Hall in Lagos was another avenue to discover and encourage youngsters in South West Nigerian.
He also called on media practitioners to sensitize the public and government on the need to focus on sports development as a tool to empower the youth.
He gave thumbs up to Ekiti State Basketball Coach, Tayo Awojurin for his doggedness and resilience at encouraging basketball players in Ekiti state even when he has enjoyed little financial sponsorship and support.
Olumide Oyedeji had earlier presented Basketball equipment and balls to the management of the Ekiti State Sports Council led by the Board chairman, Mrs Olusola Osetoba who applauded the ex-NBA star for his support and love towards the development of game of Basketball in Ekiti state.
Oyedeji was also hosted by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Hon.Micheal Awopetu who warmly welcomed him and assured of the state’s support for his youth oriented sports programs.
Olumide Oyedeji had a busy day in Ekiti State on Tuesday as he was at the State Pavilion Baskteball court to meet youngsters and equally launch the Ekiti State Basketball Camp .
A condolence visit was also paid on Professor Bolaji Aluko who recently lost his younger brother, Senator Gbenga Aluko.
Professor Aluko expressed gratitude to the Basketball legend for his role and efforts at strengthening the stronghold of Basketball across the country.
