IBADAN, NIGERIA — Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the procurement of two new buses for Shooting Stars Sports Club following their impressive CAF Confederation Cup victory, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to supporting the club’s continental campaign .
The governor announced the approval during a reception held for the team at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, on Sunday, following their 2-1 victory over Benin Republic’s AS Cotonou in the first leg of their CAF Confederation Cup preliminary round tie . Shooting Stars, who are returning to continental football after a 27-year absence, secured the victory through goals from Chibundu and Qamar Adegboke .
Makinde, who was represented by the Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, commended the players and technical crew for their performance and urged them to maintain their winning momentum . “I want to urge the players and the technical team to remain focused and ensure that they secure qualification to the group stage of the competition,” Makinde said . He assured them of the continued support of the Oyo State Government throughout the competition .
The governor also pledged additional support to ensure that the team’s needs are met as they prepare for the return leg against AS Cotonou, scheduled to hold at the Stade de l’Amitié Général Mathieu Kérékou in Cotonou, Benin Republic . The two new buses are expected to improve the team’s logistics and transport arrangements for both domestic and continental engagements .
The 3SC management and players expressed their appreciation to the governor for the gesture, describing the approval as a morale booster ahead of the second leg in Cotonou . Shooting Stars are looking to build on their first-leg advantage and secure a place in the next round of the CAF Confederation Cup.
The club’s participation in the CAF Confederation Cup marks a significant milestone, as it is their first continental appearance in nearly three decades. The last time the Oluyole Warriors played in a continental competition was in 1999, following their victory in the 1998 FA Cup . Last season’s third-place finish in the Nigeria Premier Football League earned them a return to the continental stage .
Governor Makinde has consistently supported the club since assuming office, including providing financial support for their domestic campaign and infrastructure improvements at the Lekan Salami Stadium. He also presented a cash prize of N20 million to the team’s captain for their efforts last season . The governor’s continued investment in Shooting Stars is seen as part of a broader commitment to sports development and the growth of football in Oyo State .
