The Oyo State Football Association, led by HRM Oba James Oluyemi Odeniran, has officially unveiled the 2024 Oyo State Jubril Dotun Sanusi Football League. The league will feature over 70 clubs from across Oyo state, with 20 teams competing in an abridged format.
At a press conference held at Ilaji Hotels and Sports Resort in Ibadan, the official logo of the league was unveiled, along with a giant trophy presented by the sponsor, Engineer Jubril Dotun Sanusi.
According to Oba Odeniran, chairman of the Oyo State Football Association, the competition is open to NLO teams and non-league teams. The winner will receive ₦500,000 and a trophy, while the second and third-place teams will receive ₦300,000 and ₦200,000, respectively, along with medals.
“The winner will get ₦500,000 and a giant trophy, the second placed finisher will bank ₦300,000 with medals, and the third placed team gets ₦200,000 with medals. In addition, the 4th – 20th placed teams will also be rewarded with cash gifts,” Oba Odeniran announced.
Over 70 teams have expressed interest in participating, and will compete in Zonal playoffs to determine the top 20 teams. The top six teams will then compete in a Super 6 format at Ilaji Resort.
Mr. Kehinde Ojelowo, Secretary of the State Football Association, outlined the rules and regulations for the league, emphasizing the importance of medical teams, referees, and media coverage. “We have prioritized medical and safety measures to ensure a befitting league for our dear state,” he stated.
Engineer Jubril Dotun Sanusi, sponsor of the league and CEO of Ilaji Hotel and Sports Resort, stressed that the league will be an annual event aimed at promoting youth development in Oyo state. He also announced plans to provide opportunities for talented players to further their careers in Europe through his recently acquired football club in Czech Republic.
“I wish to encourage us to use this league to showcase the best materials we have in Oyo state. I have bought a club in Czech Republic to ensure players discovered here don’t face work permit issues when traveling to Europe,” Engineer Sanusi revealed.
The league is set to kick off on October 17, with the opening match at Ilaji football pitch.
