By Law Ibitoye
Football once again proved its power to unite generations as Ilupeju Ekiti stood still on January 1, 2026, when thousands of football lovers trooped out to Ilupeju High school football field to witness the grand finale of the annual Ilupeju Unity Football Competition between ILA FC and UROMETA FC.
The much-anticipated encounter lived up to expectations, with both sides displaying grit, discipline and tactical brilliance. The first half was a true battle of the titans as chances were created but brilliantly defended, leaving spectators on the edge of their seats. Just minutes before the final whistle, ILA FC broke the deadlock, sending the ball past UROMETA FC’s defence to secure a dramatic 1–0 victory and emerge champions of the competition.
What began as weeks of intense preparation and healthy rivalry culminated in an atmosphere of comradeship and celebration. The football field erupted in jubilation as fears of possible violence gave way to unity, smiles and applause. Players, spectators and dignitaries alike departed the venue fulfilled, commending Ilupeju Ekiti for its exemplary organisation and peaceful conduct of the competition.
Special accolades went to the 2025 Football Committee, led by Coach and Managing Director of Omiye Microfinance Bank, Mr Gbenga Adegun, whose leadership, sporting prowess and wide exposure added glamour and credibility to the tournament. His dedication was further crowned with success as his quarter team, ILA FC, lifted the coveted trophy alongside a cash prize of ₦750,000.from Architect Dipo AJAYI and additional #250,000
UROMETA FC, who finished second, received ₦500,000, and Ewo quarter came third with #250,000 donated by Chief Femi Babalola who is from the quarter
Mr Abiodun Oniyelu, a renowned philanthropist from Odo-Egosi in Ilupeju Ekiti, whose own quarter placed fourth in the competition contributed immensely to the football match .
Earlier, the Chairman of Ifeloju Local Council Development Area (LCDA), Hon. Olusola Michael Oniyelu and IDA national President, Elder Banji Ogungbemi congratulated the winners and encouraged other quarters that did not reach the final to begin preparations for the next edition. The duo emphasized that the essence of the competition is to foster love, unity and friendship among residents. The chairman commended Mr Abiodun Oniyelu for injecting additional funds into the 2025 edition and applauded the Ilupeju Development Association (IDA) for sustaining the laudable initiative.
In a separate interview, the chairman of the competition, Mr Gbenga Adegun applauded the contributions of Omiye Microfinance bank for the innovation brought into the competition, saying the bank played a great role, adding that the committee members worked hard for the success of the exercise while appreciating IDA , stakeholders and every individual who contributed to the success of the exercise, Adegun prayed God to replenish their pockets and prayed that Ilupeju Ekiti would continue to wax stronger in love and development..
The colourful finale was graced by prominent sons and daughters of Ilupeju Ekiti, including the Obanla of Ilupeju Ekiti, His Highness Sunday Ogunsola; National President of Ilupeju Development Association, Elder Banji Ogungbemi; the Asiwaju of Ilupeju Ekiti, Chief (Architect) Dipo Ajayi; Chairman, LA ABEY Group of Companies, Mr Abiodun Oniyelu, MD, Omiye Microfinance Bank, Mr Gbenga Adegun ; Ms Modupe Kolawole, Head of FRSC, Omuo Division; Mr Emmanuel Ogungbemi and IDA Chairman, Ado Ekiti, Elder Kayode Ogunyemi among others.
The 2026 New Year football final not only crowned a champion but reaffirmed football as a powerful tool for unity, peace and community development in Ilupeju Ekiti.