Late Coach Babatunde Ojuola’s Legacy Will Live On Forever – Hon. Gbadegesin Samuel Johnson

 Late Coach Babatunde Ojuola’s Legacy Will Live On Forever – Hon. Gbadegesin Samuel Johnson




Hon. Gbadegesin Samuel Johnson, in an interview with Proper Sports News during the 1st Edition of the Late Babatunde Ojuola U-12 Handball Competition, affirmed that the legacy of the pioneer coach of Oyo and Osun States will endure for generations to come.



Hon. Johnson stated that the late Babatunde Ojuola was Nigeria’s first national team goalkeeper and also his personal coach. He revealed that Coach Ojuola discovered, trained, and selected him to represent Nigeria in the national handball team, where he went on to serve for ten years.

He further noted that the late coach produced two outstanding elite goalkeepers for the national team — Hon. Samuel Johnson himself and Bolaji Ojuola, the son of the late coach.




Reflecting on his career, Hon. Johnson disclosed that it was cut short due to an injury he sustained during his playing days. He emphasized that as a proud product of Oyo State, he remains committed to giving back to the state and to the handball community.



Hon. Johnson stressed that handball development must begin at the grassroots level, urging stakeholders to focus on identifying and nurturing young talents early. He also called on individuals and corporate bodies to support the sport through sponsorship, noting that increased funding would create more competitions and opportunities to discover and develop future stars.




He suggested the establishment of a Handball Academy, stating that such an initiative would greatly benefit young players and strengthen the foundation of the sport in Nigeria.



Hon. Johnson concluded by commending the organizers, coaches, and participants for their efforts in making the competition a success.




Credit Source:

Proper Sports News

February 6, 2026

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