As the highly anticipated 2025 Nigeria Nationwide League One (NLO) season draws near, Ekiti United FC has received a significant financial boost from one of its dedicated patrons, Bayo Ajayi. Demonstrating his commitment to the team’s growth and success, Ajayi generously donated N500,000 to support the club’s development, particularly in the areas of player welfare, team logistics, and overall club enhancement.
Ajayi made this commendable gesture during a familiarization meeting held at the Oluyemi Kayode Stadium in Ado-Ekiti, where he interacted with players, coaching staff, and club officials. During his address, he emphasized that his financial support was in alignment with Governor Biodun Oyebanji’s vision for sports development in the state. He acknowledged the governor’s unwavering dedication to advancing football and other sporting activities in Ekiti, stressing that such efforts would not only elevate the status of Ekiti United but also inspire young talents to pursue their football dreams.
Recognizing Governor Oyebanji as a strong advocate for grassroots sports development, Ajayi expressed his deep enthusiasm for contributing to the team’s progress. He reassured the management and players that he remains committed to supporting initiatives that will enhance their competitiveness and performance in the upcoming league season.
Furthermore, Ajayi commended Olusola Osetoba, the Governor’s Technical Advisor on Sports Development, for her relentless efforts in ensuring that sports in Ekiti State receive the necessary attention and resources. He lauded her strategic approach and vision, which have positively impacted the growth of football and other sporting disciplines within the region.
In response to this act of generosity, Ekiti United captain, Adewale Makanjuola, expressed his profound gratitude, noting that such support would serve as a huge motivation for the team. He pledged that the players would work tirelessly to achieve the club’s ultimate goal—securing promotion to the Nigeria National League (NNL). Makanjuola assured Ajayi and the club’s supporters that the team was fully committed to putting in their best performances on the field.
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Similarly, Club Secretary, Samuel Idowu, also extended his appreciation to Ajayi, describing his selflessness as a remarkable example of how stakeholders can contribute to the growth of football at the grassroots level. He emphasized that player welfare remains a top priority for the club’s management, and the funds donated would be instrumental in ensuring that players receive the best possible support in terms of training, medical care, and overall well-being.
With the new NLO season fast approaching, Ajayi’s donation has undoubtedly reinforced Ekiti United’s morale, providing the team with a solid foundation for the challenges ahead. As the club continues its preparations, fans and supporters will be eager to see how this financial injection translates into improved performances and, ultimately, the club’s ascension to the NNL.
This development further highlights the crucial role that patrons, government officials, and sports enthusiasts play in fostering football growth at all levels. With sustained support and investment, Ekiti United FC remains poised for a brighter future in Nigerian football.
