By Arabinrin Aderonke Atoyebi

In Nigeria, football isn’t just a game; it’s a way of life, a collective dream, and a source of national pride. But for every child who dreams of becoming a football star, there’s an unspoken need for a system that can nurture that talent. That’s where a visionary leader like Kunle Soname comes in.

He’s not just a businessman or a sports investor; he’s a true champion of change who has dedicated himself to building a brighter future for countless Nigerians.

Soname’s story is one of determination and success. He founded Bet9ja, one of Nigeria’s leading betting platforms, and also the airline ValueJet. But he hasn’t just built a business empire; he’s used his success to give back to the community, proving that profit and purpose can go hand in hand.

His investments in sports, particularly football, have become a beacon of hope for many young athletes. He is the owner of the Nigerian football club, Remo Stars, and also has a stake in the Portuguese team, C.D. Feirense.

In May 2025, Soname’s vision for Nigerian football reached a monumental milestone. Remo Stars won the Nigerian Premier Football League title, making history as the first privately-owned club to achieve this incredible feat.

This wasn’t just a victory for the team; it was a statement to the world that with dedication and the right resources, private clubs can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the traditional government-backed teams.

For Soname, this win was the culmination of years of hard work and a powerful testament to his belief in the potential of Nigerian football. It showed every young boy and girl that it’s possible to build a career in the sport right here at home and chase their dreams.

Soname’s impact extends far beyond the football pitch. Through the Bet9ja Foundation, he has become a powerful advocate for women, girls, and marginalised communities.

The foundation has transformed lives by providing scholarships to young girls, offering vocational training for women, and promoting sports initiatives that encourage female participation. It has also helped improve access to healthcare in underserved communities and has partnered with organisations to support education for those who need it most.

In a country where opportunities can be scarce, Kunle Soname has built a legacy not just through his businesses but through his profound commitment to people.

He has shown that true success is measured not by wealth but by the positive change you create in the lives of others. By investing in young athletes, empowering women, and supporting those in need, he has made a ripple effect of hope and opportunity throughout Nigeria.

His work is a reminder that when you build with others in mind, you can truly change the world.

Arabinrin Aderonke is a former sports administrator, former sports editor, and sports for development consultant. She writes from Abuja.

Contact@arabinrinaderonke.com

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