PanNigerianNews 
By Aliyu Raheem
Federal polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State, on Monday, commenced the maiden edition of the annual Rector’s Cup Football Competition among all the twelve departments of the institution.
Tagged “Engr. Dr. Taofeek Adekunle Abdul-Hameed Annual Footbal Cup Competion”, the competition’s opening ceremony and opening match between Departments Computer Science and Science Laboratory Technology took place at Community Grammar School, Iresa-Pupa, along Oko road.
In his opening address, the Rector of the Institution, Engr. Dr Taofeek Abdul-Hameed, represented by the Deputy Rector (Academics), Mr Azeez Olasunkanmi Ojo, implored the students to take sports seriously, emphasising the Polytechnic’s readiness to support students to excel at any sporting competition, both at local and national levels.
Emphasising the connection between sports and academics, Dr. Abdul-Hameed noted that the institution is established to impact the students academically, technically and sports wise.
“We will continue to support sports both at the level of students and staff. That, we have held very dearly and we are readiito support our teams in various sports, both locally and nationally.
“I, therefore, on behalf of the Chairman of our Governing Council, Barrister Ademubowale Mercy Adelabu, members of the Council, and staff of the Polytechnic, I welcome you all to the maiden Annual Rector’s Cup Competion.
“On behalf of Barrister Adelabu, I here declared the competition open,” Dr. Abdul-Hameed said.
The event was also attended by the Polytechnic Librarian, Dr. Samuel Oke Ogunniyi; Dean, School of Engineering Technology, Engr. Dr. Temilola Morufat Adepoju; Heads, Departments of Science Laboratory Technology, Accountancy and URP Dr. Kehinde Abraham Odelade, Dr. Saheed Shittu and TPL Richard Taiwo respectively; Coordinator, Sports Committee, Mr. Bashiru Bello; Coordinator, Security Services, Dr. John Olabode; security personnel, staff and students, youths and sports enthusiasts, including, Coach Adetunji Adetona, Coach Sola Oleshin from Crown FC, Ogbomoso; popular Woli Sports from Brave 91.1 FM, Igbo-Ile, Ogbomoso.
The first match of the tournament, played between the Departments of Science Laboratory Technology (SLT) and Computer Science, and officiated by the representatives of the Nigerian Referees Association (NRA), Ogbomoso zone, saw Computer Science defeat SLT with 4 goals to nil.
Speaking at the opening ceremony on behalf of the Institution’s Sports Committee, Mr. Bello, who welcomed the Rector and others, including the participating teams, said, “We are honoured to have with us today our esteemed Rector, the Deputy Rector (Academics), Polytechnic Librarian, Dean of Engineering and other officers of our Polytechnic.
“Your presence here demonstrates the commitment of our institution to fostering the spirit of unity, sportsmanship, and excellence among our students and staff. The Rector’s Cup is more than just a competition; it is an opportunity for us to come together as a community, celebrate our talents, and build lasting memories.
“Through this event, we aim to promote not only physical fitness but also teamwork, discipline, resilience and values that are essential both on and off the field.
“I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to everyone who has worked tirelessly to make this event possible, including the organizing committee, our dedicated staff, and of course, the participating teams. Let us all enjoy the games, support our athletes, and uphold the true spirit of sportsmanship.Once again, welcome to the Maiden Annual Rector’s Cup 2024.”
One of the colours of the opening match was the beautiful commentary run by Woli Sports of Brave FM.
