Adeleke Names Davido Sports Trust Fund Chair

Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke has appointed music star David Adeleke (Davido) as Chairman of the newly created Osun Sports Trust Fund, as part of plans to reform the state’s sports sector.

The governor, who announced the appointment in Osogbo on Wednesday, said the Trust Fund and a corresponding Sports Commission were designed to replace ad-hoc interventions with a structured, transparent and sustainable funding model.

He said the initiative would drive the rehabilitation of sports facilities, improve athlete welfare and attract private sector financing. “We are moving from handouts to a system that guarantees accountability, sustainability and results,” Governor Adeleke said.

Davido, an indigene of Ede, is expected to leverage his global network to secure sponsorships and partnerships for the state’s sports programmes. According to the governor, the move also forms part of a broader youth development and image-building agenda for Osun State.

Analysts say the appointment reflects government’s attempt to combine entertainment influence with sports investment to widen youth engagement. They however warned that the success of the Fund will hinge on proper governance, accountability structures and professional management.

Both the Sports Trust Fund and the Sports Commission are expected to commence operations before the end of the year, after the inauguration of their boards.