In celebration of philanthropy, entrepreneurship, and passion for the development of sport at youth level, Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun, widely known as IBD Dende, is set to be honoured at the third edition of the Nigeria-France Sports Awards.
The event, scheduled for October 20 at the prestigious Maison Des Arts in Paris, will see the distinguished Ogun State-born businessman receive the Green and White Champion Award, a recognition reserved for Nigerians making impactful contributions to sports development and national pride.
IBD Dende’s recognition comes not just as a businessman, but as a dedicated advocate for youth empowerment through sports. Over the years, he has used his influence and resources to foster local talent, particularly from Yewa, his hometown in Ogun State.
Through the IBD Foundation, he has championed numerous initiatives aimed at transforming lives, with a heavy focus on sports, education, and community upliftment. His work stands as a model for private sector involvement in grassroots sports development in Nigeria.
One of his most notable contributions is the establishment of Yewa’s Got Talent, an annual talent discovery competition aimed at identifying and nurturing young talents of Yewa origin. This initiative has grown into a highly anticipated event in Ogun, giving youths a platform to showcase their skills and access mentorship and support. The program not only exposes budding talents but also connects them to broader opportunities that would otherwise be beyond their reach.
In addition to talent discovery, IBD Dende has extended his support to numerous sporting events and individual athletes through scholarships and sponsorships. These efforts are channeled through the IBD Foundation, which has steadily gained a reputation for its hands-on approach to community support. He believes sports can be a powerful vehicle for social mobility has driven his commitment to ensuring that no promising talent is left behind due to lack of financial support or guidance.
Perhaps most significantly, IBD Dende is the founder and owner of Juvenile FC, a football club dedicated to the training and promotion of young footballers. The club serves as a developmental academy, nurturing talents from grassroots levels and preparing them for professional careers both in Nigeria’s national leagues and on international platforms. Through Juvenile FC, many young athletes have secured opportunities to play in higher divisions and even abroad, a testament to Dende’s long-term vision for Nigerian sports.
The upcoming award ceremony in Paris underscores the global recognition of his efforts. The Nigeria-France Sports Awards, now in its third edition, and powered by OJB Media Network, aims to strengthen bilateral relations through sports and honour individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the development of Nigerian sports. By selecting IBD Dende for the Green and White Champion Award, the organisers acknowledge his exceptional role in using sports as a tool for development and international representation.
As the spotlight turns to Paris on October 20th, this recognition not only honours IBD Dende’s past efforts but also shines a light on the importance of private sector participation in youth and sports development. It sends a clear message that sustainable impact often stems from grassroots initiatives backed by genuine commitment, vision, and the willingness to give back.
