Chairman of the Ex Ibadan Professional Footballers Association (EIPFA), Temitope Ademola Obideyi, Pillar of Sports, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth development through sports, stating that his passion is driven by personal experiences and a desire to ensure that young talents do not encounter the same struggles he faced during his football journey.
Obideyi made this known while featuring on Oro ‘Badan, a popular radio programme anchored by veteran broadcaster, Aare Kola Olomide, at Ibadan House Radio.
During the interview, the former international footballer spoke extensively on the vision behind EIPFA and the newly established EIPFA School of Sports, describing the initiative as a long-term solution to challenges confronting talented young athletes.
According to him, talent discovery alone is not enough if there is no structure to support the development of young people after they are identified.
He explained that many gifted footballers often abandon education in pursuit of professional careers and become stranded when those dreams do not materialise.
“The vision is simple. I do not want young talents to go through some of the difficulties many of us experienced while trying to build a future through football. Sports should create opportunities, not leave young people without direction when things do not go according to plan,” he said.
Obideyi noted that the EIPFA School of Sports was conceived as a platform where sports and education can work together to produce successful athletes and responsible members of society.
Speaking on sports administration in Nigeria, he expressed concern over the frequent replacement of competent professionals whenever there is a change in government.
He argued that continuity remains critical to sustainable sports development, stressing that expertise and institutional knowledge should not be sacrificed because of political transitions.
According to him, development suffers when capable individuals and successful programmes are abandoned solely because of changes in leadership.
The EIPFA Chairman also addressed growing public speculation about a possible political future, declaring that he has no intention of contesting for any political office.
Rather than pursuing elective positions, he said he would prefer to contribute his knowledge and experience as a consultant, helping governments formulate and implement effective sports and youth development policies.
Obideyi further advocated for the empowerment of retired footballers through coaching education and professional development programmes, noting that many former players possess valuable experience that can significantly contribute to the growth of sports in Nigeria.
As part of efforts to advance his vision, Obideyi announced that EIPFA will host a novelty match between Ex Ibadan Professional Footballers and Ex Super Eagles at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, on May 31, 2026.
The event will also feature the official launch of the EIPFA School of Sports, an initiative designed to provide mentorship, educational support, and career pathways for young talents.
He called on individuals, corporate organisations, government institutions, and stakeholders in sports development to support the initiative, describing it as an investment in the future of Nigerian youth.
“We cannot build the future of our young people alone. This vision requires collective support. Every child deserves an opportunity not only to excel in sports but also to succeed in life,” he added.
The May 31 event is expected to attract football legends, traditional rulers, sports administrators, community leaders, and supporters of youth development from across the country.