The Osun State Government has officially appointed music superstar David Adeleke, popularly known as Davido, to chair the newly established State Sports Trust Fund.
This strategic move aims to bolster sports development and infrastructure within the state. The announcement was made by the Deputy Governor of Osun State, Kola Adewusi, during a meeting with the Executive Members of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Osun Chapter, on Tuesday.
Deputy Governor Adewusi emphasized the government’s commitment to revitalizing the sports sector through various interventions. These include the renovation and rehabilitation of the Osogbo Township Stadium to meet Olympic standards, a project slated for completion in the shortest possible time. Additionally, plans are underway to establish the Osun State Sports Commission, which will serve as a central body for sports administration, development, and policy implementation.
Adewusi further highlighted the introduction of the Sports Trust Fund as a means to attract support from sports philanthropists both within and outside the state. This initiative is expected to ensure sustainable sports financing and development, providing a solid foundation for the state’s sporting future.
Regarding Davido’s appointment, Adewusi stated, “Davido has been contacted and informed that he would be appointed as Chairman of the Sports Trust Fund, and he did not hesitate in accepting the appointment. His intervention would attract funds that would positively impact Osun sports.” The Deputy Governor expressed confidence that Davido’s involvement would significantly enhance the state’s sports initiatives.
The establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission is a significant step forward, with the state House of Assembly having recently passed the bill. The bill is now awaiting assent from the Governor to become law. Once operational, the Commission is expected to streamline sports governance and foster a more organized approach to sports development in Osun State.
In summary, the appointment of Davido as Chairman of the Osun Sports Trust Fund marks a pivotal moment in the state’s sports landscape. With the combined efforts of the government and influential figures like Davido, Osun State is poised to achieve significant advancements in sports infrastructure and athlete development, setting a benchmark for other states to emulate.