The Polytechnic Ibadan has recorded a landmark achievement in its 2023/2024 academic session, thanks to the vision and resilience of Adegbesan Abass Ayobami, popularly known as Lino, the Student Union Government (SUG) Sport Director for the session.
On June 27, 2024, Ayobami successfully organized the institution’s first-ever marathon race without any sponsorship deal, proving his passion and commitment to sports development within the institution. Despite financial and logistical challenges, the 3.7km race was executed flawlessly, setting a new standard for student-led sporting events.
The marathon, which began at Eleyele Waterside and ended at the Polytechnic’s North Football Pitch, featured both male and female categories. Cash prizes were awarded to the top six athletes in each category, ensuring that participants were duly recognized and motivated.
The historic event received vital support from the Nigerian Police Force (Eleyele Headquarters and Sango Division), the Federal Road Safety Corps, and the institution’s medical team, which provided an ambulance for safety coverage.
Ayobami’s tenure as SUG Sport Director has been marked by several pioneering initiatives that have redefined student participation in sports. Among his notable achievements are the first-ever marathon in the institution, a table tennis competition that expanded opportunities for students to showcase their talent, and an inter-faculty football competition that promoted teamwork, rivalry, and sportsmanship across faculties. He also organized weekly aerobics sessions to encourage health and well-being among students, while championing inclusivity through female sports such as football, relay races, and sack races.
The success of the marathon and other initiatives has sparked calls for recognition from relevant authorities. Students and observers are urging the Oyo State Government—particularly the Senior Special Assistant on Student Affairs, the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, and Nigeria’s Minister of Youth and Sports—to acknowledge Ayobami’s contributions and provide necessary support.
They argue that such recognition would not only empower young leaders like Ayobami but also promote a culture of excellence in sports, inspire youth confidence, and open new pathways for sports development in Oyo State and Nigeria at large. In particular, stakeholders have called on Governor Seyi Makinde to take note of Ayobami’s outstanding achievements and consider providing institutional and financial support to further strengthen student-led sports initiatives.
The Polytechnic Ibadan’s marathon has already set the tone for what could become a long-standing tradition in the school’s sporting calendar. For many, Ayobami’s selfless efforts demonstrate the potential of young leaders when given the opportunity to take responsibility and innovate.
As the dust settles on the first-ever Poly Ibadan marathon, the spotlight now shines on whether the government and private sector will rise to the occasion, supporting young sports enthusiasts like Ayobami to drive grassroots sports development across the state and beyond.
