By Samson Oladejo
The atmosphere at Federal Polytechnic Ayede, Oyo State is set to come alive with excitement and healthy rivalry as the institution’s Annual Rector’s Cup 2026 Tournament enters its decisive semi-final stage today, Wednesday, July 22, 2026. The highly anticipated encounter will see the Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering square off against the Department of Public Administration at the Polytechnic Sports Field by 4:00 p.m.
The prestigious sporting event, organised under the leadership of the Acting Rector, Engr. Dr. Temilola Morufat Adepoju, continues to reinforce the institution’s unwavering commitment to nurturing well-rounded graduates through academic excellence, physical fitness, leadership development, teamwork and sportsmanship.
Speaking ahead of the semi-final clash, the Acting Rector, Engr. Dr. T. M. Adepoju, reaffirmed the Polytechnic’s dedication to creating an environment where academic pursuits are complemented by sporting excellence. She described sports as a powerful instrument for promoting unity, discipline, resilience and mutual understanding among students, urging participants to display professionalism, respect and fair play throughout the competition.
According to the Acting Rector, the Annual Rector’s Cup has become one of the institution’s flagship extracurricular programmes, providing students with opportunities to discover and develop their talents while fostering stronger interdepartmental relationships and a vibrant campus community.
The Sports Coordinator of the Polytechnic, Mr. Bello Bashir Olufihan, called on students, staff, alumni and supporters to turn out in large numbers to cheer their respective departments.
“The Rector’s Cup is more than a football competition; it is a celebration of unity, talent, discipline and the vibrant spirit of Federal Polytechnic Ayede. We invite every member of our academic community to be part of this exciting semi-final as Electrical and Electronics Engineering takes on Public Administration in what promises to be a thrilling contest. Let us fill the Sports Field with enthusiasm, support our teams responsibly and demonstrate the values of sportsmanship that define our great Polytechnic,” he said.
As anticipation continues to build across the campus, football enthusiasts are expected to witness an entertaining display of skill, determination and competitive spirit as both departments battle for a coveted place in the grand finale of the 2026 Rector’s Cup Championship.
The Annual Rector’s Cup remains another testament to the visionary leadership of Engr. Dr. T. M. Adepoju, whose administration continues to promote academic excellence alongside sports development, student engagement and holistic education, further strengthening Federal Polytechnic Ayede’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s emerging centres of innovation, talent development and institutional excellence.