Veteran sports journalist Yomi Omogbeja has called his recognition at the Ondo 50 Sports Icons Award a nice surprise and a homecoming. He reflected on his family's long-standing link with sports management in the state.
Mr Omogbeja, who is the editor-in-chief of Athletics Africa, was one of 50 sports stars, officials, media groups, and institutions honoured by the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Ondo State Chapter. This was for their roles in developing sports.
The award ceremony took place in Akure. It was part of the events celebrating the 50th anniversary of Ondo State.
In a statement to Premium Times, Mr Omogbeja expressed how touched he was by the recognition, especially since he lives far from home. He said, "It was a pleasant surprise and a great privilege for me to receive the award. It’s particularly heartwarming for me and felt good to be remembered even when one is so far from home."
He viewed the award as a sort of homecoming. He remembered that his father was an executive member of the Ondo State Sports Council in the 1980s. "It’s like a homecoming of sorts because my Dad used to be an Executive member of the Ondo State Sports Council in the 80s," he shared.
Mr Omogbeja mentioned that being recognised alongside notable figures added more meaning to the occasion. He highlighted the presence of former Ondo State Governor Olusegun Mimiko and former Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL) chairman Gbenga Elegbeleye.
"And to be so honoured among eminent personalities like the former Governor of Ondo State, Dr Olusegun Mimiko; former Chairman of the Nigeria Professional Football League (NPFL), Otunba Gbenga Elegbeleye; and many more distinguished sons and daughters of our state is a huge moment for me," he said.
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