D’Pride FC Emerges Champion of 2024 Engr. Strikah Foundation Football Competition

The 2024 Engr Strikah Foundation Football Competition came to a thrilling conclusion on Sunday, December 22, 2024, at the popular Wesley Football Pitch in Elekuro, Ibadan.

D’Pride FC of Ibadan South East emerged overall winner defeating Debo Motors FC of Ibadan North East by a lone goal.

The competition, which kicked off on December 1, 2024, featured 12 young clubs from Ibadan North East and Ibadan South East Local Governments.

In his address at the grand finale, Engr. Sanusi Ridwan Strikah, Founder/CEO of Engr Strikah Foundation acknowledged the partnership with the Grassroot Football Talents Developers Association of Nigeria, which made the competition possible.

Engr. Strikah congratulated the participating teams, D’Pride FC and Debo Motors FC, on their dedication, hard work, and passion for football.

He also commended the other teams that participated in the competition, praising their exceptional skills, sportsmanship, and determination.

Engr. Strikah emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for one another, values that are essential not only in football but also in life.

“As we gather here today, I am reminded of the power of sports to unite us, to inspire us, and to transform us. Football, in particular, has a unique ability to bring people together, to create a sense of community, and to foster a spirit of friendly competition.

“As we celebrate the finale of this competition, I urge you all to remember the importance of sportsmanship, fair play, and respect for one another. These values are essential not only in football but also in life.” Engr. Ridwan Sanusi (Strikah) said

Hon. Akeem Ademola Ige, Chairman of the Oyo State Local Government Staff Pension Board, applauded Engr. Strikah Foundation for organizing the football competition, stating that it lived up to expectation.

Another guest at the grand finale, Hon. Shakirullah Fajinmi, former Senior Special Assistant on Political Affairs and Agriculture to the Oyo State Governor, also commended Engr. Strikah Foundation for hosting a successful competition.

The grand finale of the 2024 Engr Strikah Foundation Football Competition was equally graced by several distinguished personalities.

Notably were the Executive Director, Marine and Operations, Nigeria Port Authority, and Global President, LAUTECH Alumni Association, Engr. Abdul Rahman Olalekan Badmus, who was represented by Prof. Ige Azeem, the Global General Secretary, LAUTECH Alumni Association, and Dean, Faculty of Agriculture, LAUTECH, Coach Miller, an NFF-certified coach; Coach Zico, coach of Ilaji FC and a former Super Eagles player; and Hon. Prince John Oyetunji Aremu, the APC Youth Leader in Oyo State.

Earlier before the grand finale, a novelty match was played between Team Strikah All Stars and GRAFTADEAN All Stars, ending in a 2-2 draw.

The excitement was palpable as Engr. Sanusi Ridwan Strikah, Founder/CEO of Engr Strikah Foundation, took to the field and scored a beautiful goal, showcasing his own football prowess.

The Engr Strikah Foundation is committed to promoting grassroots football development and empowering young people through sports.

The competition is planned to be an annual event, with hopes to make it bigger next year.