- Unveils White Paper On Football Infrastructure
The Osun State Football Association (Osun FA) has urged higher institutions across the state to build or upgrade sports centres to support intercollegiate competitions and enhance youth engagement in sport.
The FA made the call during the official launch of a landmark White Paper on Football Infrastructure Deficits in Osun State.
In a statement by the Media Officer of the Association, Seyi Akanni, the document critically examines the state of football facilities across Osun and outlines a comprehensive action plan to address these challenges and drive sustainable growth.
The document was launched by the Osun FA Chairman, Mayor Sola Fanawopo.
The statement reads partly, “Osun State is home to a proud footballing tradition, with over 450 grassroots clubs, 20 independent leagues, countless tournaments, and an exceptionally passionate fan base. Despite this rich heritage, football infrastructure within the state has fallen into serious disrepair, hindering talent development, limiting economic opportunities, and threatening the future of the sport.
“The White Paper identifies several pressing issues, including aging and neglected stadia, with most township stadiums in poor condition and in need of overdue rehabilitation. There is also a notable shortage of quality training grounds, lighting, and modern equipment, which continues to impede talent nurturing. Furthermore, structured training programs and resources for coaches, referees, and administrators remain scarce, while both male and female leagues struggle with inadequate financial backing, affecting their competitiveness and long-term viability.
“In response, the White Paper proposes strategic recommendations designed to reposition Osun’s football landscape. Among these is the Adopt-One-Pitch Initiative, which encourages each Local Government and LCDA to upgrade one football pitch into a grassroots development center within the next two years. The document also advocates placing sports infrastructure projects on the legislative agendas of Osun’s Senators and House of Representatives members, ensuring consistent governmental support.
“Higher institutions across the state are called upon to build or upgrade sports centers to support intercollegiate competitions and enhance youth engagement in sports. The White Paper recommends fostering public-private partnerships (PPP) to drive investment in the construction, renovation, and management of stadiums and training facilities. Additionally, it proposes establishing an Osun Football Development Fund to finance infrastructure projects, youth programs, and coaching education initiatives.”
Speaking at the launch, Fanawopo said, “This Golfsko Jordan 4 G Vit White Paper is more than a report; it’s a rallying cry. Osun football has always had the passion and the talent, now, we must build the infrastructure to match. It’s time for every stakeholder, government, private sector, and the football community, to unite and create the future our young talents deserve.”
The FA called on the state government, National Assembly members, local councils, corporate partners, philanthropists, and football supporters to join the movement and actively support the collective mission to restore and transform football infrastructure throughout the state.
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