Makinde Showers Dollars on Falconets, Pushes for Super Eagles Matches in Ibadan
By: Israel Adeleke
OPEN TELEVISION NAIJA (OTN) News reports as gathered that the Oyo State Governor, Oluseyi Makinde, has rewarded Nigeria’s U20 women’s national team, the Falconets, with $15,000 following their emphatic 4-0 victory over Rwanda in the 2026 FIFA U20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Ibadan.
OTN News further reports as gathered that the win, courtesy of goals from Precious Oscar, Tumininu Adeshina, Janet Akekoromowei, and Alaba Olabiyi, sealed a 5-0 aggregate triumph and earned the Falconets a third-round tie against either Senegal or Algeria in February 2026.
Speaking earlier at the Nigeria Football Federation’s (NFF) 81st Annual General Assembly in Ibadan, Governor Makinde, urged the federation to consider staging Super Eagles matches in the Oyo State capital, stressing that it would boost his administration’s vision of developing a sports-driven economy.
According to him, “We are trying to develop a sports economy. But if we don’t have the support of people like you (NFF), some of our efforts will be in vain."
"Oyo State, Ibadan especially, we want to have the opportunity to host big events, including the Super Eagles. Check out our facilities, and I promise you I will give the support you need,” he said.
The governor further highlighted ongoing investments in sports infrastructure and reaffirmed his commitment to leveraging football as a tool for youth empowerment, job creation, and social cohesion.
He also praised the NFF and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) leadership, led by Hon. Gbenga Elegbeleye, for raising standards in officiating and league organisation, which he said have restored confidence in the domestic game.
In his remarks, NFF President, Ibrahim Gusau, applauded Makinde’s efforts and assured that a Super Eagles match would be hosted in Oyo State before the end of the current administration in 2027.
“We appreciate your contributions to football and sports. I assure you that before 2027, a Nigerian national team match will be hosted here in recognition of your consistent support,” Gusau said.
Former NFF President, Amaju Pinnick, also used the occasion to call on stakeholders to support the vision of the current football leadership and work together to strengthen unity within the federation.
The General Assembly drew football dignitaries from across Nigeria and beyond, including FIFA observers Hamed Haraz and Lyrique Dupiesis, FIFA representative Nadim Magdy, WAFU Executive Director Philippe Tchere, and other stakeholders.
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