"A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country.” These timeless words ring true yet again, as Otunba Akin Akinbobola, a football/Sports development technocrat and visionary leader, receives fresh national recognition beyond the borders of his native terrain. The National Sports Commission has appointed him as a member of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the prestigious Combined Confederation of Africa Athletics (CAA) U-18/U-20 Championship scheduled to hold in Abeokuta in July 2025.

Egbe Atunluse Initiatives, a leading socio-political movement in Ondo State, has extended warm congratulations to its Chairman, Otunba Akin Akinbobola, describing the appointment as a deserving tribute to his unwavering commitment to the growth of sports, particularly football, in Nigeria and across the African continent. The group noted that while some may have failed to value his efforts at home, the larger sporting community continues to benefit from his wealth of experience.

It will be recalled that Akinbobola was once handpicked by the late Governor Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu to breathe life back into Sunshine Stars Football Club after it was  relegation threatened about three (3) years ago. Under Akinbobola's watchful guidance, superintendent over by the present governor (who was then deputy governor) the club witnessed a resurgence from drowning. Sadly, his exit from that position has since seen the club descend into mediocrity once again—a stark reminder of how visionary leadership is often under-appreciated until it's gone.

The group stated that Akinbobola’s recent appointment reaffirms his status as a colossus in sports administration. “He is a football and sports administrator whose impact transcends boundaries,” the statement read. “His gradual return to the national stage is not just a recognition of past glories, but a call to duty that only a man of his calibre can fulfill.”

Egbe Atunluse Initiative concluded by urging young sports administrators to draw inspiration from Akinbobola’s journey—an odyssey marked by selflessness, resourcefulness, innovation, and undying passion for development. The group prayed for divine wisdom and strength for him as he joins other very distinguished Nigerians in hosting the continental championship.

Sikiru Adetona, 

D.G 

Egbe Atunluse Initiatives