A heartening development unfolded in Ibadan as Governor Seyi Makinde approved land allocations for members of Shooting Stars Sports Club’s renowned 1998 squad, finalising a promise made over a quarter of a century ago. The former players and officials had been waiting since the era of military governor Amen Oyakhire for their reward individual plots of land and cash payments, after securing a domestic league title and the WAFU Cup
.
Back in 1998, Governor Oyakhire pledged N1 million plus land to each player, N2 million plus land to officials, and N3 million plus land to the club chairman. Despite repeated appeals across numerous administrations, the veterans had yet to receive what was duly promised.
In a heartfelt letter, former Chairman Chief Bode Oyewole appealed directly to Governor Makinde, extolling the ex-squad for lifting the state’s profile and pleading “We know Governor Makinde as a kind‑hearted person who will never allow any man to suffer unnecessarily. We are therefore begging him to give the ex‑3SC players and officials their deserved rewards”.
Acknowledging the symbolic significance of the gesture, Makinde’s approval at long last marks the fulfilment of a 26 year old undertaking bringing closure to a promise once thought forgotten.
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Editorial
We rejoice that Governor Makinde has honoured a promise delayed for too long. Recognising the achievements of the 1998 3SC team, whose domestic league and WAFU Cup successes brought pride to Oyo State, this gesture restores more than land it restores dignity.
We observe that past administrations repeatedly neglected this promise, leaving ageing footballers in limbo. By approving the land allocations now, Makinde has shown that leadership cares for its heritage and honours its word.
We also reflect that this action sets a precedent. Sporting legends who uplift our state deserve more than applause they deserve tangible recognition. When leaders act with integrity, they signal that promises, even long‑buried ones, truly matter.
We feel this moment is about respect respect for history, respect for contributions, and respect for those who gave their prime in service of state pride. As we began, we affirm that fulfilling this pledge restores faith in governance and dignifies our heroes.
Did You Know?
- Shooting Stars Sports Club was founded in 1950 under the name WNDC Sporting Club and later renamed in 1973.
- The 1998 squad also reached the final of the CAF Cup Winners’ Cup that year, though they didn’t lift the trophy.
- WAFU Cup victories by Nigerian clubs in the late 1990s helped elevate regional football prominence on the continent.
- Governor Seyi Makinde, a native of Ibadan, took office in 2019 and prioritised youth and sports development across Oyo State.
- Before becoming governor, Makinde built a successful engineering firm, Makon Group, focused on gas and power engineering.
