By: Adekunle Oni-Daniel
Al-Ameen Korede Oladipupo, a 300-level student of the Department of Agricultural Extension and Rural Development, emerged as the Sports Commissioner of the Great Independence Hall of Residence, University of Ibadan, after polling a total of 450 votes, against 47 void votes in the hall’s election held on February 27, 2025.
His manifesto plans, characterizing his social contract deal with Katanga Republic, focused on inclusivity, continuity, and innovation.
Katanga Republic
Al-Ameen’s first plan aims to promote inclusivity among the hall athletes by fostering a vibrant sports community within the hall. This community, according to him, would showcase a variety of sports activities represented across the University of Ibadan and not just the traditionally dominant ones like football.
He also promised to foster broader participation and engagement by giving equal priority to lesser-known sports. Additionally, to address the recurring disputes on the Maracana field, he promised to set a code of conduct for sportsmen in the hall.
The Sports Commissioner further assured Katanga Republic of the promotion of physical fitness among the hall athletes against the occurrence of injuries by facilitating regular training exercises for Katangites every Saturday before the traditional Saturday set. According to him, these sessions will help build camaraderie among the hall athletes.
Another highlight of his manifesto is the introduction of Independence Hall Sports Day. This initiative, according to him, is not only open to Katangites but other interested students of the University of Ibadan. The event aims to feature both indoor and outdoor games.
In line with his constitutional duties, Al-Ameen pledged to prioritize the welfare of Katangites by collaborating with the Floor Representatives to appoint a sports representative for each constituency, who would give regular update on the welfare of the hall athletes.
This initiative, he said, would also extend to Katangites living off-campus, with a three-man committee overseeing the follow-ups.
Katanga Chess Club and Mobile Games Tournament
This plan aims to resuscitate Katanga Chess Club. According to him, a tournament will be organized to spotlight the outstanding chess players within the hall, awarding them certificates.He also promised to host an E-Sports tournament for mobile gamers.
Inter-Floor and Inter-Block Competition
Al-Ameen further promised to ensure the continuity of the traditional inter-floor and inter-block competitions, assuring to advance the tournament with the introduction of video coverage for goals and highlights.
