The maiden edition of the Oyo State Pool Champions League concluded with spectacular displays of skill at the Ibadan Recreation Club 1902’s Billiard section. The tournament, organized through a collaboration between the Oyo State Government and iCue League through the Agency for Youth Development, brought together 24 talented players from across the southwest region, showcasing the growing prominence of pool sports in Nigeria.
In a dramatic showdown, Ogundoju Olumide Abidemi, known as “Wyza,” demonstrated exceptional skill and showmanship to secure a 3-0 victory over Joseph “Joe” Adejuyigbe. “I started playing pool when I was very young, I grew up in a society where people shoot pool, I started as a Boardman, playing for fun. This is just the beginning, I’ll be going for every competition,” Wyza reflected on his journey to championship glory.
The tournament’s success represented a significant milestone for pool sports development in Oyo State. Prince Falana Adebowale Adebayo, Chairman of the Oyo State Agency for Youth Development, expressed his satisfaction with the outcome: “The Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde has given a mandate that every talent in the state does not waste. I’m excited to see Wyza winning this because he is from Oyo State, and people came from different southwest states.”
Tournament convener Mr. Oluwatosin Odita emphasized the broader vision behind the event: “I feel so fulfilled, because the intention for this was not about the money, it was about bringing a community of pool players together to have a proper foundation to play more and train more so we can export players out for international tournaments.” The championship concluded with substantial prize money for the top performers, with the champion securing a grand prize of ₦1 million, while the first and second runners-up received ₦500,000 and ₦300,000 respectively.
