Nigerian businessman and sports entrepreneur Kunle Soname has once again drawn admiration for his remarkable contributions to sports development, youth empowerment, and community transformation in Ikenne, Ogun State.
In a reflective piece titled The Magician of Ikenne, journalist Lanre Adewole recounted his personal visit to Soname’s sprawling sports complex in Ikenne, describing the billionaire entrepreneur as a man whose achievements are quietly reshaping the future of Nigerian football and youth development.
Adewole narrated how he accompanied an elderly relative, a passionate football enthusiast and longtime acquaintance of Soname, on a trip to the historic town of Ikenne — famously known as the hometown of late Nigerian statesman Obafemi Awolowo.
According to him, the journey to Ikenne revealed not only the historical importance of the town but also the growing legacy being built there by Soname through his investments in sports and human capital development.
At the heart of the visit was Soname’s modern sports complex, which houses a CAF-approved 6,000-capacity stadium, football academy facilities, and serves as the home ground of Remo Stars F.C., the privately owned football club established by the businessman.
Adewole described the facility as a symbol of one man’s determination to build lasting opportunities for young Nigerians through football. He noted that the stadium has hosted continental football matches and has also been used by several African national teams as training camps ahead of major competitions.
The writer said he was struck not only by the scale of the investment but by Soname’s simplicity, humility, and warm personality despite his enormous wealth and influence.
He recounted how the billionaire personally welcomed them into his office dressed casually and without the intimidating aura often associated with wealthy businessmen. According to Adewole, Soname’s laughter and friendliness immediately created a relaxed atmosphere.
Beyond football, the article highlighted Soname’s growing investments across several sectors including aviation, agriculture, banking, petroleum, and technology, though he remains widely known for his airline business, sports betting platform, and football investments both in Nigeria and abroad.
Adewole praised Soname for channeling much of his success back into his hometown and youth-focused initiatives, describing him as a model of purposeful wealth and responsible community development.
During a guided tour of the facility, the journalist observed young footballers preparing for training sessions, their dreams of becoming international stars clearly visible. He said the academy environment reflected discipline, orderliness, and hope for a brighter future.
The article further emphasized that Soname’s achievements are not mere publicity stunts but genuine investments capable of changing lives and inspiring the next generation.
Adewole also expressed a desire to someday conduct a full interview with the businessman, particularly on issues relating to governance, entrepreneurship, youth leadership, and economic development, areas he believes Soname possesses deep knowledge and experience in.
He concluded by urging Soname to become more publicly engaged through lectures, mentorship programmes, and youth interactions, stressing that many Nigerians could benefit from learning how he successfully combines wealth, humility, leadership, and philanthropy.
The writer ended on a lighter note, jokingly admiring Soname’s stylish wristwatch collection while acknowledging the businessman’s overall modest appearance and graceful personality.
