Twelve (12) students of Achievers University, Owo, have qualified to represent Ondo State at the maiden Niger Delta Sports Festival. The record-setting event, marking the 25th anniversary of the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC), is scheduled to take place in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, from April 1 to April 9, 2025.
The selected students have proven their grit and skills in various sports categories, having excelled at the qualifying stages held at Achievers University and the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA). The Achievers University contingent includes: Bamidele Ayomide (Political Science) – 400m Male; Utham Peace (Political Science) – 4 X 100m Relay Male; Afolabi Faith (Medical Laboratory Science) – Shot Put Female; Babalola Odunayo (Political Science) – Basketball Male; Obianyo Stephanie (Medical Laboratory Science) – Volleyball Female; Ahmadu Kelvin (Biomedical Engineering) – Volleyball Male; Balogun Mofeoluwa (Nursing) – Chess Female; Adegboro Victoria (Nursing) – Chess Female; Odebe Cecilia (Law) – Chess Female; Ibilewa David (Medicine) – Chess Male; Adediran Temiloluwa (Biomedical Engineering) – Chess Male; and Ogheneejiro Uduvwotayin (Nursing) – Scrabble Female.
In a heartfelt address, the Vice-Chancellor of Achievers University, Professor Omolola Irinoye, reiterated Achievers University’s unremitting commitment to fostering a holistic educational experience by ensuring that students balance academics with extracurricular activities, including sports. She noted that the University’s emphasis on sports aligns with her broader mission of producing well-rounded graduates equipped to excel in all aspects of life. She, therefore, congratulated the students on their success and urged them to uphold the University’s values of integrity, discipline, and excellence.
“It is our hope that as you have made us proud in the selection competitions, you will continue to do so at the festival. Remember to conduct yourselves with dignity and obey all rules and regulations. Winning medals is important, but maintaining your integrity is even more honourable. Be good ambassadors of our great institution.”
She further advised the students to stay vigilant, avoid performance-enhancing drugs, prioritize their health, and adhere to the guidance of university officials accompanying them. She assured them of the University’s unwavering support and wished them success in their respective events, noting that the University community eagerly awaits their triumphant return, with medals and accolades to celebrate their achievements.
The Director of Sports, Mr. Rowland Akinwale, on behalf of the student-athletes, expressed gratitude to the Pro-Chancellor, Hon. Dr. Bode Ayorinde and Vice-Chancellor, Professor Irinoye for their continued support of sports development at Achievers University.
“We deeply appreciate the university leadership for making this opportunity possible. The athletes are determined to make the school proud and will uphold the institution’s reputation with dignity.”
He appreciated further the institution’s acknowledgment that participation in sports fosters discipline, teamwork, leadership, and strategic thinking—all of which contribute to academic excellence and personal development. He added that over the years, the University has invested significantly in sports infrastructure, coaching, and student participation in local and national competitions.
