In a major stride toward football development in Osun State, the Iwo Local Football Council on Wednesday, October 29, 2025, successfully organized a groundbreaking seminar targeted at grassroots football coaches. The landmark event, which took place in Iwo, focused on two critical themes: “Introduction to Players Marketing” and “Understanding the IFAB Laws of the Game.”
The seminar attracted over 100 grassroots football coaches alongside football referees, football stakeholders, and sports development enthusiasts from Iwo, Ayedire, and Ola-Oluwa local government areas, marking a significant milestone in capacity building for football personnel in the zone.
The event featured two renowned experts in Nigerian football:
Chief Tunde Salahudeen Issa, a National Media Officer and South-West Coordinator of Nationwide League One (NLO) and Coordinator of Nigeria’s first official pre-season tournament, the Gold Tourney Cup. TS delivered an insightful lecture on “Introduction to Players Marketing,” highlighting the modern dynamics of player development, scouting structures, talent exposure, and career pathway management for grassroots athletes.
Mr. Adejumo Quadri, a NPFL Referee, 3-time MA Course Invitee, and Member of the Osun State Football Referees’ Council presented on “Understanding the IFAB Laws of the Game,” clarifying key interpretations, latest amendments, and practical implications of the Laws of the Game to enhance coaching knowledge and match understanding.
The momentous program enjoyed the presence of respected personalities, including Dr. Sirajudeen Bilal Al-Asrau, CEO, Innayatullahi Travels & Tours, Dr. Azeez Abiodun, former board member, Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC), Ibadan, Pastor Abiosun, former Chairman, Osun ANCOPSS, Alhaja Omotayo Adebayo Odo-Oba, business icon and global traveller, Alhaja Mojirade Aminu, Principal, Anwarul-Islam Grammar School, Iwo and many other notable personalities
Also in attendance were executives and members of the Local Football Councils of Iwo, Ayedire, and Ola-Oluwa, reaffirming inter-council cooperation in sports development.
The event was graciously hosted by the chairman of Iwo Local Football Council, Alhaji Sikiru Adeesho and secretary, Prince Toyin Bello with Prince Dauda Abimbola, former PRO of Osun State Sports Council and current Member of the Osun FA Board, served as the Chief Host.
The seminar lasted approximately five enriching hours, during which participants engaged in interactive sessions, practical discussions, and professional football education.
Anchored by Mr. Otun Alabi Mayowa, who served as the Master of Ceremony, the event maintained a seamless flow, combining knowledge delivery with high-level coordination and engagement.
Both facilitators delivered exceptional and impactful presentations, equipping grassroots coaches with modern tools to guide player development and better interpret the laws governing football.
The initiative by the Iwo Local Football Council reflects a strong commitment to grassroots growth, technical advancement, and empowerment of local football managers.
By pioneering such a developmental seminar, the Iwo Local Football Council has set a benchmark for other football bodies across Osun State and Nigeria at large, signaling a progressive era for community-based football education and talent developments.
The success of the program was made possible through the dedication, planning, and collaborative effort of the Iwo Local Football Council, its leadership, and partners.
As stakeholders anticipate more strategic initiatives, this seminar stands as evidence that the future of grassroots football in Iwoland is bright, promising, and in capable hands.
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