By Akeem Busari

The fast developing Ekiti state economy is set to receive further boost in the coming days as the Ekiti State Football Association led by Bayo Olanlege would play host to football teams participating in the matches of NLO 2.

A total of 112 registered amateur teams have been divided into 8 centres across the country. And Ado- Ekiti is expected to play host to matches involving eleven teams.

The bidding rights to host matches of the NLO was reportedly keenly contested by several state FAs who had to convince the league management of their readiness to host games of the league adjudged to be the most important football league in Nigeria.

According to Ekiti FA boss, Bayo Olanlege, the decision to bid for hosting rights of the NLO matches, was premised on the mission of the state football association to build a sustainable and long lasting football culture, as well as, key into the plans of Gov. John Kayode Fayemi to build and develop a viable and attractive economy in Ekiti state.

“Hosting eleven teams that will be involved in NLO matches for seven days, would certainly bring values and also boost tourism and the economy of our state.

“The hoteliers, restauranteurs, food vendors, petty traders and others, would be fully engaged during this period by over 330 players and officials for seven days. And that’s a good one for our people and our economy,” the highly resourceful football administrator enthused.

He added that the football matches expected to be played at the Oluyemi Kayode stadium, Ado-Ekiti would further help to increase the desires and new found fervour for football in the state.