Chairman of the Badagry Divisional Football Association, Dr. Ozondu Martins, has reaffirmed his unwavering dedication to grassroots football development, citing a deep desire to leave a lasting legacy by empowering underprivileged youths through the sport.
In a recent statement, Dr. Ozondu disclosed that his primary motivation stems from a vision to restore hope among children in difficult circumstances by offering them opportunities through football.
“My greatest mission is to ensure that every child out there, who is crying due to a lack of hope, finds hope through football,” he said.
The respected grassroots football advocate outlined his broader mission, which includes providing not just children but also local coaches, referees, and club owners with a platform for growth and transformation.
“I aim to empower these children, coaches, referees, and club owners through football, and ultimately, to use the sport as a means to steer youth away from crime and social vices,” he explained.
Recognizing the challenges that come with grassroots work, Dr. Ozondu emphasized the importance of perseverance and following due process in achieving lasting success.
“Life at the grassroots level can be tough, but patience has been one of the most significant sources of my strength. In everything we do, patience is essential. The right time will always come through dedication, and our efforts will yield results, pushing us to improve upon our past achievements,” he added.
Dr. Ozondu also stressed the need for continuous learning, noting that staying updated with new trends and best practices is key to sustaining progress in grassroots football development.
His comments come at a time when grassroots football is increasingly seen as a vital tool for youth engagement and national development, especially in underserved communities.
