Sports
Ruth Ogbeifo Balofin Weightlifting Centre opens in Ilorin
Ruth Ogbeifo Balofin Community Project (ROBCOP) on Wednesday entered into a partnership with Kwara State College of Education to groom weightlifters in the tertiary institution and its environs.
The founder of ROBCOP, Ruth Ogbeifo Balofin (OLY) revealed that her priority is to ensure weightlifters are educated and train with the best equipments.
The Sydney 2000 silver medallist seeked for the collaboration of the state government, the sports council and management of the tertiary institution in ensuring the program becomes a success.
She said, “Today is a historic day because Ruth Ogbeifo Balofin Community Project (ROBCOP) is entering into a partnership with the College of Education in owning its training centre inside the school. We have a vision for all our weightlifters to become heroes and heroines as well as become educated.
“In the next four years, we hope to see some of these weightlifters bring glory to Kwara state and Nigeria at international championships. ROBCOP will provide the enabling environment and equipment for the weightlifters to train. For you to excel in the sport, you need consistent training”, she added.
“I cannot do it alone; a tree cannot make a forest and that is why I am seeking the collaboration of the state government, the sports council and management of the tertiary institution”.
While commending the initiator of the project, the Acting Provost of College of Education, Ilorin, Dr Jimoh Ayinla reiterated the college’s resolve to continue to support sports development in the institution.
Meanwhile, former commissioner for sports, Hameed Adio (OLY) while describing Ruth Ogbeifo Balofin as an icon and virtuous woman said that she won 63 gold, 4 silver and 3 bronze medals in her weightlifting career for Kwara and Nigeria including the Commonwealth and Olympics.
Sports
Grassroots football Guru: Celebrating Nureni Makanjuola’s Contributions to Nigerian Football
In the realm of Nigerian football, few individuals have made as profound an impact on grassroots development as Nureni Makanjuola, popularly known as MK. As the proprietor of Water FC of Abuja, MK has been instrumental in shaping the future of Nigerian football, one young player at a time.
MK’s love affair with football began at a young age, and his passion for the beautiful game only grew stronger with time. However, it was his realization of the vast, untapped potential in Nigerian grassroots football that spurred him to take action. Determined to make a difference, MK established Water FC, a platform dedicated to discovering, nurturing, and developing young football talents.
Water FC, under MK’s guidance, has become a beacon of hope for young Nigerian footballers. The club’s academy provides a conducive environment for youngsters to hone their skills, with top-notch coaching, training facilities, and equipment. MK’s commitment to grassroots development is evident in the club’s scouting network, which identifies and recruits talented players from all over the country.
The success stories emerging from Water FC are a testament to MK’s vision and dedication. Several players who have passed through the club’s ranks have gone on to represent Nigeria at various international levels, including the U-17 and U-20 World Cups- a case in point is Babatunde Micheal. Others have secured professional contracts with top Nigerian and European clubs, a clear indication that Water FC is producing talents capable of competing on the biggest stages.
MK’s impact extends beyond the football pitch. Through Water FC, he has empowered communities by providing opportunities for young people to engage in sports, thereby promoting social development and cohesion. The club’s presence has also stimulated local economic growth, with businesses and services springing up to cater to the needs of players, coaches, and visiting teams.
As a role model for philanthropy, MK’s selfless contributions to grassroots football development have earned him recognition as a role model for philanthropy in sports. His commitment to giving back to the community, without expecting anything in return, is a shining example for others to follow. By investing in the future of Nigerian football, MK is inspiring a new generation of leaders, entrepreneurs, and change-makers.
We conclude this price by stating explicitly that Nureni Makanjuola (MK) is a true champion of grassroots football development in Nigeria. Through Water FC, he has created a platform that not only discovers and develops young talents but also empowers communities and promotes social growth. As a nation, we owe a debt of gratitude to MK for his tireless efforts in shaping the future of Nigerian football. His legacy will continue to inspire generations to come, and his impact on the beautiful game will never be forgotten.
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