In a remarkable show of commitment to youth development and grassroots engagement, Hon. Chris Ayebusiwa, lawmaker representing Okitipupa Constituency I in the Ondo State House of Assembly, yesterday hosted the grand finale of the CHRISCARES Constituency Football Competition—an initiative designed to harness the power of sports in empowering young people and promoting community cohesion.
Held at a lively community field, it attracted a large turnout of residents, traditional rulers, youth leaders, sports enthusiasts, and political supporters who came to witness the exciting climax of the weeks-long tournament designed to promote unity, discipline, youth development, and purpose among young people.
Addressing the jubilant crowd shortly after the match, Hon. Ayebusiwa reaffirmed his unwavering commitment to youth empowerment and inclusive governance. He described the competition as a strategic intervention aimed at redirecting youthful energy towards purposeful and productive engagement.
“Our young people are filled with potential,” Ayebusiwa stated. “What they need is direction and platforms like this to express themselves. Initiatives like this help to build their confidence, teach discipline, and instill values that promote leadership and progress.”
He further emphasized the role of sports as a vital tool for social integration, character development, and crime prevention among youth.
The CHRISCARES football competition featured multiple teams drawn from different wards/communities across the constituency, with matches played over several weeks. In addition to the excitement of the games, the tournament promoted values such as teamwork, discipline, and healthy competition—key elements in building strong communities.
In his remarks, Hon. Ogunsakin Andrew, Okitipupa LGA Council Boss, commended Ayebusiwa’s initiative, describing it as a bold demonstration of people-centered leadership.
“This is what visionary leadership looks like,” he remarked. “Chris is not just organizing football matches; he is investing in the future of our youth by creating meaningful opportunities for growth and unity.”
The grand finale witnessed intense gameplay as the two finalist teams battled for supremacy. The event climaxed with the presentation of trophies, medals, and cash prizes to the winning teams, runners-up, and outstanding players. Cheers erupted from the crowd as the winners lifted their trophies, surrounded by friends, family, and fans.
In attendance were stakeholders, including sports enthusiasts, community leaders, political leaders, and youth leaders, all of whom applauded the initiative.
Some spectators and residents who spoke with RootedScopeMedia expressed joy and appreciation for the lawmaker’s efforts, saying the tournament rekindled hope and unity in the community.
“This kind of engagement brings life back to our people,” said one youth leader. “It has kept us active, given us something to look forward to, and reminded us that we matter.”
As the crowd dispersed after the event, many called for continued investment in youth-driven initiatives and urged other leaders to emulate Ayebusiwa’s model of inclusive and responsive representation.
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