…Proves the Pen is Mightier than the Mace
It was an atmosphere of excitement and camaraderie on Monday as the Oyo State Ministry of Information edged the Oyo State House of Assembly 1–0 in a friendly football match held as part of activities marking the 2025 Nigeria Union of Journalists, Information Chapel (NUJIC) Week.
The keenly contested encounter, staged at Ikolaba High School, Ibadan, drew a lively crowd comprising members of the Information Chapel, officials from both the Ministry and the House of Assembly, as well as other well-wishers who came to witness the symbolic sporting event.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information, Mr. Rotimi Babalola, officially kicked off the game at 2:40 p.m., setting the tone for what turned out to be a thrilling contest. Both sides displayed impressive teamwork and determination in the first half, but solid defending and excellent goalkeeping ensured the scores remained goalless at halftime.
The second half, which resumed at 3:30 p.m., brought renewed intensity as both teams pressed for an opener. The breakthrough eventually came for the Ministry of Information when their striker, Taiwo Adebayo, rose highest in the box to head home a cross after a goalmouth scramble sparking wild celebrations from the Ministry’s bench and supporters.
Despite late pressure from the Assembly team, the Ministry’s defense held firm to preserve their slender lead until the final whistle.
The friendly, which formed part of the 2025 NUJIC Week activities, was not just about competition but also about strengthening unity, teamwork, and friendship among professionals across government institutions.
Speaking shortly after the match, the Chairman, Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Information Chapel, Comrade Ismail Fasasi, appreciated the Oyo State House of Assembly team for honouring the friendly invitation.
“This gesture reflects the camaraderie between us and will further strengthen our working relationship,” he said.
He also commended the Information team for their resilience and determination, describing the victory as well-deserved.
With Taiwo’s decisive header sealing the win, the encounter will long be remembered as a spirited and entertaining highlight in the history of the Information Chapel’s annual celebrations.
