The Oshodi-Isolo Local Government women’s team delivered an outstanding performance at the PLAY MATES Season 5, an annual grassroots sporting initiative organized by the Lagos Made Women Organization under the visionary leadership of *Ambassador Abosede Oluwakemi Joseph* . This year’s edition, themed “Women in Power (WIG)”, celebrated the transformative power of sports in empowering women at the grassroots level across Lagos State.
Held on Thursday, December 5, 2024, at the iconic Teslim Balogun Stadium, Surulere, the event brought together women from various local governments to compete in traditional and recreational games such as Ayo Olopon, tug of war, and ludo etc. The atmosphere was electric, with participants showcasing their skills, camaraderie, and determination to excel.
Representing Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, the women’s contingent, coordinated by the Head of the Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation ( *WAPA* ) Department, Mrs. Arigbabu and her amiable team delivered a stellar performance. Under her leadership, the team displayed remarkable unity and resilience, ultimately *earning second place overall.* Their success captivated the audience and reinforced Oshodi-Isolo’s reputation for excellence and teamwork.
Commending the team’s success, the Executive Chairman of Oshodi-Isolo Local Government, Otunba Kehinde Adeola Almaroof Oloyede, lauded the athletes for their determination and resilience. “Our women have consistently proven that they are forces to be reckoned with. This achievement is a testament to their dedication and the collective support of our local government in creating opportunities for women to thrive,” he stated.
Ambassador Abosede Oluwakemi Joseph, the convener of the PLAY MATES initiative, emphasized the importance of empowering women through sports. She stated, “This project is about giving women a voice, a platform to express themselves, and the confidence to embrace their potential. It is inspiring to see the enthusiasm and talent displayed year after year.”
Participants were decorated with medals in recognition of their efforts, further emphasizing the essence of the initiative—celebrating women’s contributions to community development and fostering unity through sports.
The PLAY MATES Season 5 not only celebrated sporting excellence but also reinforced the commitment of Lagos Made Women Organization to advancing the empowerment of women at the grassroots. The Oshodi-Isolo women, with their stellar performance, have set a standard of excellence and demonstrated the impact of consistent investment in community development. Their victory serves as a reminder of the potential unlocked when women are given the platform to thrive, leaving a legacy that will inspire future generations to aim higher and achieve more.
The Oshodi-Isolo Local Government extends heartfelt congratulations to its exceptional athletes and expresses gratitude to Mrs. Arigbabu, the WAPA department, and the organizers of the PLAY MATES initiative for their unwavering dedication to grassroots development. Together, they have proven that when women rise, communities thrive.
