No fewer than 8,000 secondary school students across Ondo State are set to participate in an inter-school football competition organised by an agribusiness firm, Johnvents Foods Limited, designed to boost youth and sports development in the state.

With the initiative launched under the firm’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) umbrella at the Adekunle Ajasin University Business School, Akure, Ondo State capital, the initiative, according to the firm, will unlock potential and foster leadership skills through sports.

Tagged “Johnvents Apex League”, the competition, according to the Managing Director of Johnvents Foods Limited, Mr Ademola Aramide-Atolagbe, will run for six months, bringing together 16 secondary schools from across the state.

He said, “The six-month tournament will bring together 16 secondary schools from across Ondo State, engaging more than 8,000 students through mentorship and sports-based learning.

“The initiative builds on the company’s vision to use sports as a platform for youth empowerment, education, and community development, an extension of its brand philosophy, “Creating Unforgettable Food Moments.

“Our mission at Johnvents has always been to nourish lives and invest in the future of our communities. Sports provide a unique opportunity to do both: shaping the minds, discipline, and character of young people who will lead tomorrow.

“For us, creating unforgettable food moments goes beyond products; it’s about creating real impact that lasts.”

The state Commissioner for Education, Science and Technology, Prof. Igbekele Ajibefun, who was present at the launch, commended Johnvents Foods Limited for the initiative and described the competition as a timely contribution to youth development and education in Ondo State.

Ajibefun emphasised that education goes beyond classroom learning, highlighting the importance of sports in building discipline, teamwork, and character among students.

“Education goes beyond the classroom. What Johnvents Foods is doing connects learning, discipline, and passion in a way that develops well-rounded students.

“By investing in these young minds, Johnvents is helping to raise future leaders who can excel both academically and personally.”