By
Princewill Oviesan Deduke
In football, recognition often goes beyond the pitch. It is about honoring those who have stood firm in building structures that empower communities and strengthen the culture of ownership. At the upcoming Football in the Community Conference in Badagry on Saturday, May 16, 2026, the Community Football Foundation (CFF) will present the first batch of Badagry United Football Club (BUFC) Platinum Membership Cards to distinguished members who have played pivotal roles in advancing community football in Nigeria.
This presentation, which will also include the club’s muffler, symbolizes a new chapter in fostering community ownership and loyalty in Nigerian football. Among the recipients are respected leaders and stakeholders such as DCG Jibo Bello (Rtd), Oba Oyekan Adekanmi Ilufemiloye, Prince Seyon Adeyemi Akran, Hon Babatunde Hunpe, Hadji Gafar Liammed, Hon Rauf Ibrahim Kayode Yemaren, Alh Mubashiru Adetona, CAC AS Kaila, Chief Abel Mautin Ogunbiyi, Ogunyale Ibukun Micheal, Ajao Ogunlola, and Chief Kabiru Alassan Sariki Arewa.
The gesture underscores the theme of the conference — “Building Community Football Clubs Ownership Culture in Nigeria” — and highlights BUFC’s pioneering role in promoting grassroots football through inclusivity, accountability, and shared responsibility. By recognizing these individuals, CFF and BUFC are not only celebrating leadership but also inspiring communities to embrace football as a tool for unity, development, and cultural pride.
This milestone event will take place at the Conference Hall, Alapa of Apa Palace, Badagry, Lagos, with royal and civic dignitaries in attendance. It marks a significant step toward embedding community ownership in Nigerian football, ensuring that the game belongs to the people and thrives through their collective support.
