Becoming a member of the Local Organizing Committee (LOC) for the inaugural edition of the Offa Preseason Football Tournament was not just a privilege but an unexpected adventure. Organized by Titan Global Sports International under the visionary leadership of its CEO, Olanrewaju Oyeyemi Azeez Omoluabi, this tournament was an experience I never anticipated participating in.
To be candid, sports reporting has never been my area of expertise as a journalist. Those who know me are well aware of my inclination towards crime, politics, and metro news—fields that allow for investigative depth and narrative intrigue. In fact, I even told Timothy Ekene Agbor that I have just accidentally become a member of the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN), Kwara State Chapter.
Despite my protests of ignorance about football, I was told my skills were needed, and I soon found myself in unfamiliar territory.
For context, I neither play nor watch football. My interest in the sport is limited to my admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo—a legend whose unparalleled work ethic and sheer talent have made him, in my eyes, the greatest footballer of all time. Ronaldo embodies everything football aspires to be: technique, vision, improvisation, and sportsmanship. A trailblazer who continually sets and breaks records, he is, quite simply, the GOAT.
As for sports in the family, my brother Ashola Debowale Jimoh (JUJUMA) more than makes up for my indifference and that of other siblings. An avid football player, he represents our household in the world of sports with distinction.
The LOC role brought its challenges and rewards. Other members—Adexsports, Mikail Bintinlaye (MK Bintinlaye) Tommy, Mr. Sulaiman Haileru, Mr. Garuba, Alhaji Abdulwasiu Adebisi, the Chairman of the Offa Football Council (OFC) and others —were instrumental in guiding me through my responsibilities. Their expertise, experience and support made the journey not only manageable but also enjoyable.
The daily grind of the tournament involved covering 2-3 matches each day. This wasn’t just a matter of sitting back and reporting as a journalist would; as a LOC member, I was actively involved in ensuring seamless transitions between matches and troubleshooting on the go. The work was intense, requiring constant movement and collaboration to ensure the tournament’s success.
Our many meetings and deliberations were equally rewarding. I was pleasantly surprised to find that my opinions—despite my self-professed lack of football knowledge—were sought, considered, and even implemented.
Yesterday, as the tournament concluded, I reflected on the journey. What began as a daunting assignment turned into a deeply enriching experience. I leave this tournament not only with newfound expertise in sports reporting but also with a sense of pride in contributing to something truly meaningful.
This experience reinforced a truth I’ve come to cherish: stepping out of one’s comfort zone often leads to the most rewarding adventures.
Taofik Adekunle Jimoh (JAAT)
Editor, News Bulletin Nigeria
08144510532
