The Osun State Government has officially appointed renowned Afrobeats artist David Adeleke, widely recognized as Davido, as the chairman of the newly established Osun Sports Trust Fund solely designed to attract private investment and philanthropic contributions to enhance the sports sector, ensuring sustainable financial support for athletes, facilities, and competitions in the State.
Deputy Governor and Commissioner for Sports, Kola Adewusi, confirmed the appointment, emphasizing that the administration of Governor Ademola Adeleke is committed to transforming the sports infrastructure within the state.
The transformation includes the ongoing renovation of the Osogbo Township Stadium, which is being upgraded to meet Olympic standards, thereby positioning it to host both national and international sporting events upon completion. “The renovation of the Osogbo Township Stadium is significantly advanced and will be completed shortly,” Adewusi stated. He also mentioned the establishment of the Osun State Sports Commission, which will oversee sports administration, development, and policy implementation.
Furthermore, the creation of the Osun Sports Trust Fund is intended to attract long-term funding from individuals and organizations that have a keen interest in sports. The deputy governor noted that Davido's appointment as chairperson of the Sports Trust Fund was promptly accepted by the artist. “His involvement is anticipated to garner substantial support and investment that will positively impact sports in Osun,” Adewusi remarked. The state government reiterated its dedication to completing all ongoing sports development projects, with a vision to position Osun as a leading hub for talent discovery and international sporting activities.
Additionally, Davido’s role as a global ambassador for PUMA, a premier sportswear brand, further enhances his credibility within the global sports landscape and aligns effectively with his new position. As a PUMA ambassador, Davido represents the intersection of sports, fashion, and entertainment, serving as a genuine link between youth culture and athletic development. His association with PUMA presents opportunities for brand collaborations, athlete sponsorships, and potential sports merchandise programs that could directly benefit athletes from Osun and enhance the state's sports infrastructure.
Davido’s international reputation, extensive youth following, and demonstrated capacity to attract corporate partnerships position him as a formidable advocate for change. Through his influence, the Osun Sports Trust Fund is poised to secure sponsorships, foster collaborations with the private sector, and attain international visibility that local sporting institutions frequently find challenging to achieve.