By Olusola Alabi
SmartCity PLC, an investment and infrastructure development company, on February 2, 2024, joined forces with the Osun Football Association to headline the Osun States Apex Tournament, rebranding the league as the “SmartCity Osun State Football League.”
The SmartCity Osun State Football League aims to amass a significant following within the state and attract a global viewership through social media and web platforms.
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Blackdrum TV, the league’s broadcast partner, ensures live coverage of major matches on both web and cable television networks.
Sir Demola Aladekomo, Chairman of SmartCity PLC, expressed pride in being the first title sponsor in the State of the Living Spring, emphasizing shared values of competition, fair play, and global passion for football.
According to him, “The company looks forward to a long-term partnership supporting and connecting fans across Osun State and beyond”.
Sola Fanawopo, Chairman of Osun FA, highlighted SmartCity’s evident commitment, stating that the iconic lead partnership is great news for the league, fans, and the entire state.
The collaboration is expected to inspire private sector interest in football and facilitate ongoing investment in the game at all levels.
Ixzdore, the Osun FA’s data partner, guarantees the comprehensive maintenance of players’, clubs’, and matches’ historical and live data. This data will be leveraged to generate statistics and analytics beneficial for player and club evaluations, aiding in transfers and ensuring transparent transfer payments. The raw and analytical data will also be accessible to clubs, analysts, broadcasters, and betting companies.
A total of 32 grassroots football clubs have enrolled in the Under 17 League, divided into four conferences. Two teams from each conference will advance to the Super 8, where the ultimate winners will emerge.
Over 700 young players are set to participate in the league, featuring 12 weekly matches across 15 approved football grounds.
The SmartCity Osun Football League is scheduled to kick off on February 13, 2024 at the Osogbo Township Stadium.