Executive Chairman, Kwara State Sports Commission, Mallam Bolakale Adisa Mogaji, has commended the state’s football team for their gallant performance at the ongoing National Sports Festival tagged Gateway Games 2024, despite their 4-1 defeat to host state Ogun in the final match.
The encounter, which took place on Tuesday, May 27, 2025, in Abeokuta, Ogun State at the iconic MKO Abiola Stadium in Abeokuta, saw Kwara settle for a silver medal in the football event.
However, Mallam Mogaji, in his post-match remarks to the players and officials, expressed immense pride in the team’s efforts as the boys were the better side regardless of the scoreline.
Mallam Mogaji further emphasized that the team had not disappointed him, Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, or the entire people of Kwara State, praised their commitment, discipline, and resilience throughout the tournament.
Reacting to the Chairman’s gesture, Head Coach Ajewole Ezekiel appreciated the motivation and support extended by the Sports Commission boss.
He noted that Mallam Mogaji has given Kwara sports the visibility and respect it deserves on the national stage.
Coach Funsho Alamoyo also lauded the Chairman’s fatherly support and dedication to the development of young athletes in the state.
Also Coach Abdulkadir Jimoh described the National Sports Festival as a valuable experience for the entire team and expressing his gratitude to Mallam Mogaji for the platform and opportunity it presented to showcase the team’s talents.
Despite the final result, the Kwara football team’s journey to the silver medal position stands as a significant achievement, reaffirming the state’s growing reputation in grassroots and competitive football.
The players and coaching crew are now expected to return to their various academies and clubs, with renewed focus and determination for future competitions.
