From an Idea to a Tradition – FUTA Alumni Association Worldwide Hosts 3rd FUTA Alumni Sports Festival
As with any alumni body, it is the students who once walked the institution’s halls that form the lifeblood of the association. Yet membership is not automatic; for some, lingering grievances with their alma mater prompt a swift detachment the moment they step out, certificate in hand, never to look back.
Fortunately for us, we were perceptive enough to heed the quiet murmurs of prospective alumni members who questioned the value of affiliating with a body that had been conspicuously absent during their campus years. It was this very sentiment that gave rise to the FUTA Alumni Sports Festival.
Beyond the thrill of competition, the festival serves as a vital bridge—offering current students a meaningful point of connection with the alumni community while they are still on campus, nurturing a sense of belonging long before they graduate and fully embrace their roles as alumni.
This simple yet profound idea, conceived and brought to life two years ago under the leadership of the immediate past President, Engr.
Adeyemi BELLO, was ably sustained by his successor, Mr Billy IBUJE, who ensured the flame continued to burn brightly.
This year’s edition was especially vibrant, as Mr Billy IBUJE marshalled the strength of his team to deliver a resounding success. Within just two months of securing an approved date, the First Vice President of FUTA Alumni Association Worldwide, Prince Adeyemi Adesanya, successfully attracted external sponsors to the event. This not only added colour and prestige but also broadened its appeal, as supporters of participating faculties enjoyed access to sponsor products simply by turning up to cheer on their peers.
The university management, under the distinguished leadership of the Vice Chancellor, Prof Adenike Oladiji, along with other senior administrative officers, attested to the marked improvement in this year’s festival. Participating students also expressed their appreciation, noting that the ‘thank you for participating’ gifts had evolved beyond mere certificates into something far more tangible.
At the conclusion of the event, SIMME claimed the top spot with 60 points, followed closely by SET with 36 points, while SLIT secured third position.
In his remarks, the President, Mr Billy IBUJE, extended heartfelt gratitude to the participating students, describing them as the true VIPs for dedicating their time despite the pressures of tests and the forthcoming examinations. He also commended the university’s sports unit for their unwavering support and readiness whenever called upon. He thanked his executive team, the central working committee, and most especially his Vice President, who secured sponsors when it seemed an impossible task. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to continually strengthen the bond between the alumni body and the wider university community. He further expressed appreciation to the sponsors for their turnout and voiced his hope for a mutually beneficial partnership as he looks to deepen those ties.
The Vice Chancellor was ably represented by the two Deputy Vice Chancellors, Prof Taiwo Amos and Prof Sunday Oluyamo, alongside the Registrar, Mr Charles Adeleye. Members of Council, including Prof Boniface K. Alese, Deans of Faculties, and other principal officers of the university, were also in attendance.
Our sponsors:
1. Flour Mills Ltd (Golden Penny Foods)
2. Danone (Fanmilk)
3. Cway Nigeria Ltd (Cway Water)
and other well-meaning Nigerians.
We eagerly anticipate an even more exciting and promising 4th edition!
See you in 2027!
Oseyande IDEDE
Publicity Secretary
