Kwara United’s CAF dream: Ilorin set to host continental showdowns

“Even Iya Elepa is ready!” – Sports Boss says stadium, economy, and fans stand to gain big

Ilorin is buzzing, and it’s not just from Kwara United’s historic Federation Cup win — the state is now eyeing a continental football party right in the heart of the capital!

Coach Bola Mogaji, the fiery Executive Chairman of the Kwara State Sports Commission, says preparations are in top gear to get the George Agbazika Innih Stadium ready for the big stage — the CAF Confederation Cup.

“We’re not playing around,” he said on a hot radio show monitored by Daily Independent. “CAF is coming to inspect the stadium, and we want to make sure Ilorin becomes the fortress for Kwara United on the continent!”

The club, fresh from its epic cup triumph in Lagos, is Nigeria’s flagbearer alongside Abia Warriors. But the real goal now? Bringing the international fixtures home to Ilorin — not Abuja, not Lagos — Ilorin!

Cash, Crowd & Community: Why It Matters

According to Mogaji, playing in Ilorin isn’t just about the home advantage — it’s about money, momentum, and the magic of local football.

“Look at what happened in Lagos during the Federation Cup — the hotels were full, markets boomed, fans came in droves. Kwara can get that too, but even bigger!” he stressed.

And to make it real, he shared a touching example — the legendary “Iya Elepa,” a groundnut seller who’s been a stadium regular for years.

“I took her to Lagos with the team. She sold out! That’s what football does — it lifts the small people too. That’s the economy we’re building.”

New Players, New Hopes

While stadium renovations are ongoing, player recruitment is also in motion. “We’re adding tested legs to the squad,” Mogaji revealed. “The Confederation Cup is tougher than the Federation Cup. We’re going in prepared.”

Governor on the Radar

And what about support from the top? “The governor knows what’s at stake,” the sports boss said confidently. “Once we get CAF’s green light, we’ll make our presentation. I trust he’ll back us.”

Bottom Line?

Kwara wants the CAF Cup nights under Ilorin skies. The fans are ready. The economy is waiting. And yes, even Iya Elepa has her mobile show glass ready.

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