It was a day of celebration, camaraderie, and football flair as friends and well-wishers gathered at Loyola College, Ibadan, to honour Comrade Kayode Adeyeni Olagunju with a novelty football match in celebration of his birthday.
The event drew a lively crowd comprising colleagues, associates, community members, and admirers of the celebrant, who is widely respected for his commitment to public service, youth development, and community welfare.
Organised entirely by friends and well-wishers, the match was more than just a game—it was a heartfelt expression of admiration and appreciation for Comrade Olagunju’s enduring legacy in civic life and beyond.
Two teams—Team Kay and Team Olagunju—made up of his friends from the Broadcasting Corporation of Oyo State (BCOS), supporters, and local football talents, faced off in an exciting encounter filled with laughter, spirited competition, and a shared sense of purpose.
High Drama on the Field
The game kicked off with intensity, as both sides vied not only for victory but for bragging rights and pitch supremacy. It took just 10 minutes for Team Olagunju to stamp their authority on the game when Remi opened the scoring with a spectacular volley that left Team Kay’s goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Despite their early setback, Team Kay grew into the game, probing for an equalizer. However, they were repeatedly denied by Team Olagunju’s rock-solid defense, which held firm under pressure.
Towards the end of the first half, Team Olagunju nearly doubled their lead when a through ball found their number 9, who unfortunately failed to convert the golden opportunity.
In the second half, Team Kay returned with renewed determination. They created several clear-cut chances but lacked the finishing touch to level the score.
Then, 15 minutes into the half, Remi struck again, capitalising on a goalkeeping error to tap in from close range and extend Team Olagunju’s lead to 2-0.
Not to be outdone, Team Kay pulled one back in the 77th minute through a brilliant finish by Oloyede Adekunle, who calmly slotted home a well-placed long-range pass. The goal sparked hopes of a comeback, and Team Kay pushed for a dramatic late equaliser, but Team Olagunju’s resilient defence held firm to seal a 2–1 victory.
A Celebration Beyond the Scoreline
While Team Olagunju claimed victory on the scoreboard, the true triumph was the spirit of unity, love, goodwill, sportsmanship and celebration that defined the day.
Speaking to Ireport247news sports correspondent after the match, the coach of the winning team, Comrade Lamidi Adeyemi Lamadex, described the game as a worthy tribute to a respected leader:
“It was all fun and celebration today, but I’m proud of the team for showing great spirit and teamwork. More than the win, we’re glad to honour Comrade Kayode Adeyeni Olagunju with this exciting match. Happy birthday to a true leader!”
The celebration concluded with a trophy and medals presentation, group photographs, birthday cheers, and a short reception held on the sidelines of the pitch, where guests continued to honour the life and legacy of the celebrant.
Beyond his professional achievements spanning technology, accounting, health, and media, Comrade Kayode Olagunju is known for his philanthropic initiatives, advocacy for good governance, and dedication to youth empowerment.
As the sun set over Loyola College’s football field, it was clear that this celebration was more than a birthday—it was a heartfelt salute to a man whose impact continues to uplift and inspire.