UNILORIN elite volleyball club honours Ibraheem with novelty match
By Mustafa Abubakar
The University of Ilorin Staff Volleyball Team (USVT), popularly known as the “Elites”, has honoured the immediate past Director of Sports, Prof. T. O. Ibraheem, with a colourful novelty volleyball match in recognition of his meritorious service and successful completion of his tenure in office.
The event, held at the University Indoor Sports Hall, attracted distinguished guests, volleyball enthusiasts and supporters in celebration of sportsmanship, friendship and dedicated service.
Speaking on the rationale behind the event, the Club Captain, Mr Adeoye Adewale of the Department of Human Kinetics, said the novelty match was organised to celebrate Prof. Ibraheem’s remarkable contributions to sports development at the University.
He explained that the event was sponsored by Mr Tosin Obafemi of the Works Department, members of the Elite Volleyball Club, including Prof. Ibraheem, while generous material donations from Dr S. T. Bakinde also contributed to its success.
Mr Adewale said that besides honouring Prof. Ibraheem, the competition featured cash prizes, with the champions receiving ₦50,000, the first runners-up ₦30,000 and the second runners-up ₦15,000. He also announced the individual award winners: Williams Benedict (Best Setter), Mr Jayeola Abdulquadri (Best Spiker), Mr Ige Abraham (Best Libero) and Mr Ajayi Salamu (Most Valuable Player).
He added that the participation of national volleyball players, including Mr Jayeola Abdulquadri, thrilled spectators, while the event was successfully coordinated by former University volleyball athlete and professional player, Mr Sylvester Adewoye. He also commended Mr Tosin Obafemi for his impartial officiating, which enhanced the credibility of the tournament.
In his remarks, Prof. Ibraheem expressed appreciation to the Vice Chancellor for the opportunity to serve as Director of Sports and thanked the organisers, sponsors, participants and guests for the honour.
He described regular participation in sports as the cornerstone of healthy living and urged members of the University community to embrace physical activity. He also invited interested staff members to join the Elite Volleyball Club, which trains every Tuesday and Thursday from 4:30 p.m.
Among the participants Mr Ologbonsaiye Victor, Mr Luqman Oyedeji, Mr Jerry Aideloje and several other members of the Elite Volleyball Club.
Also present were Prof. Raji, Chairman of the University Sports Council from the Faculty of Veterinary Medicine; Dr S. T. Bakinde; Dr Aina of the Department of Human Kinetics; Dr Kayode, the immediate past Sub-Dean of the Faculty of Education; and many other members of the University community.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards and cash prizes to outstanding players and teams.
