The South West zonal qualifier of the Veteran All Stars Football Tournament concluded in grand style at the MKO Abiola Sports Arena in Kuto, Abeokuta, with Ondo and Ogun States emerging as the region’s representatives for the upcoming national finals scheduled for September.
Hosted by the Abeokuta All Stars Football Association, the tournament drew veteran teams from across the region, including Oyo and Ekiti states, in what was a thrilling display of skill, camaraderie, and the enduring spirit of grassroots football. In a historic first, the Ondo State Veteran All Stars team clinched the top spot, marking a significant milestone in their regional football journey. Ogun State, the host team, secured the second and final ticket available to the Southwest zone after a series of intense matches.
The tournament enjoyed full support from the Ogun State Government, which commended the Abeokuta All Stars Football Association for its consistent role in sports development and community engagement. The Ogun State Commissioner for Sports Honorable Wasiu Isiaka represented the State Government where he lauded the initiative as a commendable platform for active senior citizens and ex-footballers to contribute to national unity through sport.
One of the key highlights of the event was the official recognition of the Honorable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, as the Grand Patron of the All Stars Football Association. His contribution and immeasurable support in every way towards the preparation and execution of the qualifiers was acknowledged by participants and officials at the event.
In addition, several other distinguished individuals and sports supporters were honored for their steadfast support of the teams and the tournament. Among them were philanthropist and business mogul Alhaji Ibrahim Dende, Comrade Ayowande Wisdom, Nigeria’s Minister of Youth Development, Chief Oluwaji, veteran football supporter Segun Davids, and community leader Gbenga Ajanaku.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chairman of the Abeokuta All Stars Football Association praised the spirit of sportsmanship displayed by all the participating teams and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to promoting football as a tool for unity, physical well-being, and social inclusion among Nigeria’s veteran players.
With the tournament concluded, attention now shifts to the national stage, where Ondo and Ogun States will fly the Southwest flag at the National Veteran All Stars Championship in September.
