On December 15, 2024, the NEPA Playing Ground in Egbin, Ijede LCDA became a melting pot of sportsmanship, community spirit, and leadership as the grand finale of the All-Stars Unity Football Game concluded in a thrilling spectacle.
Organized by Hon. Abiodun Moshood Aro (Hon. AMA), member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, the event transcended its sporting roots to become a platform for fostering unity, resilience, and harmony across Ikorodu Constituency II.
The All-Stars Unity Football Game was designed to unite men aged 40 and above across various communities, including Imota, Elepe, Igbogbo, Ijede, and other areas within the constituency.
It aimed to go beyond competition, promoting collaboration and inspiring unity among leaders and residents.
Hon. AMA emphasized the deeper purpose of the tournament, stating, “This tournament is a celebration of the strength and resilience of our community. It is about fostering unity, creating connections, and setting an example of collaboration for the younger generation.”
Having recently been awarded the 2024 Best Community Leadership and Youth Empowerment Award, Hon. AMA’s commitment to community development continues to shine through initiatives that span education, sports, and women’s empowerment.
The Grand Finale’s excitement kicked off with the third-place match between Alabiamo All Stars FC and Igbe All Stars FC.
Despite an early goal by Igbe, Alabiamo fought back to equalize, forcing the game into a tense penalty shootout.
Alabiamo ultimately triumphed 6-5, clinching the ₦300,000 prize.
The championship match between Igbogbo All Stars FC and Makbet All Stars FC was the highlight of the event.
A goalless regulation time led to an intense penalty shootout that kept spectators on edge.
In the end, Igbogbo All Stars edged out their opponents 10-9, thanks to their goalkeeper, Seun Omolaja (popularly known as Owo), who made four critical saves.
The team celebrated their victory with the grand prize of ₦500,000.
Makbet All Stars FC, clinching the 2nd place position, received ₦400,000, while Igbe All Stars FC, finishing in 4th place, took home ₦200,000.
In addition to team awards, individual brilliance was recognized: Most Valuable Player & Highest Goal Scorer: Femi Olusanya (Igbogbo All Stars FC); Best Goalkeeper: Seun Omolaja (Igbogbo All Stars FC); Best Coach: Ekine Obayomi; and Best Team: Ijede All Stars FC.
The presence of esteemed traditional rulers and dignitaries further demonstrated the significance of the event.
Royal fathers, including Oba Akeem Oriyomi Oyebo (Obateru of Egbin Kingdom), Oba Semiudeen Kasali (Adeboruwa of Igbogbo Kingdom), Oba Ajibade Bakare Agoro (Ranodu of Imota), and Chief Aliu Musediku, the Regent of Ijede Kingdom lent their support, alongside political figures and other community stakeholders.
Adewale Bolowotan, Director-General of the AMA Smile Foundation, highlighted the broader impact of the tournament, stating, “This tournament is more than a game; it is a unifying force. It brings communities together, nurtures sportsmanship, and inspires hope for a brighter future.”
The grand finale’s location in Egbin Kingdom was a deliberate choice by Hon. AMA, reflecting his commitment to inclusivity and equal representation across the constituency.
Hon. AMA reinforced the event’s core message by stating, “When our homes and communities are united, our society and country become stronger.”
Honouring all participants, the organizers refunded each team’s ₦50,000 registration fees, while the top four teams received additional cash prizes.
The grand occasion was further highlighted by an electrifying performance from 9ice (Adigun Alapomeji), whose music brought a vibrant and celebratory energy to the event.
Among the distinguished guests at the event were: Hon. Jimoh Orelope (Alimosho I), Hon. Lawal Adeseye (Ikeja I), Hon. Orekoya Abiodun (Somolu I), and Hon. Femi Saheed (Kosofe II).
Also present were the executive chairmen of the LCDAs: Hon. Motunrayo Gbadebo-Alogba, Chairman of Ijede LCDA, and Prince Wasiu Kunle-Agoro, Chairman of Imota LCDA.
In addition, Dr. Abiodun Fatai-Abatan, Dean of Students Affairs at LASU; Comrade Olalekan Biliamin Oba, SSA on Social Development to the Governor of Lagos State; and APC LGA and ward chieftains from across the constituency graced the occasion.
The All-Stars Unity Football Game left an indelible mark on Ikorodu Constituency II.
Beyond the competitive spirit, it underscored the immense potential of sports to foster unity, build connections, and drive community progress.
Under Hon. Aro Moshood Abiodun’s visionary leadership, Ikorodu Constituency II, continues to chart a course toward development and harmony.
INN-HOUSE☆ 