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Akure-born coach Nike Ayeni has praised the Ondo State Football Agency for its support after guiding Sunshine Stars U19 to a historic Federation Cup campaign that has captured attention across Nigerian football.
Ayeni, regarded as the only female coach currently managing a male football side in Ondo State, steered the youth team to its first state FA Cup success and qualification for the national Federation Cup Round of 64.
Sunshine Stars U19 defeated Akure North United FC 1-0 to secure the state title before overcoming Adamimigo FC on penalties following a 1-1 draw.
The side then booked a place in the national competition with a convincing 3-1 play-off victory over Harmony FC.
The team is now set for a high-profile Round of 64 clash against Nigeria Premier Football League side Niger Tornadoes FC.
Speaking after the latest victory, Ayeni described the achievement as the product of discipline, preparation and collective belief.
“This victory is not just about today; it is about the hard work these boys have put in from day one,” she said.
“We respected our opponent, but we believed in our structure, our strategy and our strength. The players executed the game plan perfectly.”
Ayeni also paid tribute to Ondo State Football Agency chairman Divine Ogbonaya and the agency’s board for what she described as their unwavering support throughout the campaign.
“I want to sincerely thank the chairman, Divine Ogbonaya and the board for their consistent support and encouragement,” she added.
“Their belief in this team, timely support and commitment to football development in Ondo State have motivated the players immensely. We are determined to repay that trust with the league and FA trophy.”
Under Ayeni’s leadership, Sunshine Stars U19 remain unbeaten in the competition and have also qualified for the Super 8 qualifiers.
“We qualified for the Round of 64 without losing a match and that tells you about the mentality of this team,” she said.
“From the draw against Akure North United to the wins over Adamimigo FC and Harmony FC, the boys have shown character.
But the job is not finished. We are focused on lifting the trophy.”
Ayeni, a CAF Licence C coach and NIS-certified tactician, previously served as assistant coach of Sunshine Queens FC, helping the club qualify for the Nigeria Women Football Premier League.
A former player and captain before moving into coaching, she said her experience at different levels of the game had helped shape a disciplined and tactically organised U19 side.
“Experience matters in tournaments like this. I have been privileged to work at different levels, and all those experiences prepared me for this moment,” she said.
“I believe in developing players mentally and physically and you can see the result on the pitch.”
The coach also highlighted unity within the squad as a key factor behind the team’s impressive run.
“This is a team built on trust. Every player understands his role.
We attack together and defend together,” she said.
Despite the growing attention surrounding the team’s achievements, Ayeni insisted her players would remain focused ahead of their next challenge in the 2026 Federation Cup.
“Our focus is clear. We respect whoever we meet in all our matches, but we believe in ourselves,” she said
. “By God’s grace, we will give Ondo State something to celebrate.”
The Ondo State Police Command has announced the assumption of duty of CP Felix Ohagwu as the 47th Commissioner of Police in the state.
Ohagwu officially took over from the outgoing Commissioner of Police, CP Adebowale Lawal, following his deployment by the Inspector-General of Police, Olatunji Rilwan Disu, as part of efforts to strengthen internal security and improve policing across the country.
According to a statement issued by the Ondo State Police Command, the new police commissioner is a seasoned officer with over three decades of experience in crime prevention, intelligence-led policing, public safety management and operational coordination.
The Command noted that CP Ohagwu had served in several operational, investigative and administrative positions across the country, where he distinguished himself through professionalism, discipline and dedication to duty.
Speaking after assuming office, the new police commissioner pledged to consolidate on the existing security architecture in Ondo State while ensuring the protection of lives and property.
He assured residents that the command under his leadership would remain committed to combating crime and criminality through proactive policing, intelligence gathering, community engagement and collaboration with other security agencies and stakeholders.
Ohagwu also emphasized that the command would uphold transparency, accountability, respect for human rights and professionalism in the discharge of its duties.
He further stated that officers and men of the command would continue to be guided by integrity, ethical conduct and quality service delivery in line with global best policing practices.
The commissioner expressed appreciation to the Inspector-General of Police for the confidence reposed in him, while also commending his predecessor, CP Adebowale Lawal, for his contributions toward maintaining peace and security in Ondo State.
The Police Command called on residents to continue supporting security agencies with timely and credible information that could aid crime prevention and public safety across the state.
Members of the public were also encouraged to contact the Commissioner of Police on 08037127198 for security-related information.
A special valedictory session has been held by the Governing Council and Management of Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State in honour of a departed Council member, Late Hon. Solomon Baribote, on Wednesday, 13th May, 2026 in the Council Chambers.
Late Hon. Baribote aged 44 passed away on Friday, 19th December, 2025 after an eventful and impactful sojourn on earth.
In an emotion-laden tribute, the Council Chairman, Hon. Barr. Ademubowale Mercy Adelabu, extended deepest condolences to the family, friends and constituents of the deceased. She remarked that the departed soul served the Council with distinction, noting that he brought a spirit of candour, diligence and patriotism to Council’s deliberations.
According to her, the departed Council member was very thorough at committee meetings, well-measured during plenary, accessible and collegial in private life. She recalled that Hon. Baribote always respected divergent views and worked to build consensus, reminding us that our mandate is to serve the public good.
The Council Chairman stressed that the life of the deceased should be a reminder to everyone that time is fleeting and service is a sacred trust. ” Let us honour his memory by continuing to discharge our duties with integrity, fairness and commitment”, she charged.
Afterwards, a minute silence was observed in honour of the departed Council member.
In a related development, the Rector of the Institution, Dr. Ademola Iyanda Ebeloku, described the deceased as a diligent and thoughtful member of Council who has a deep concern for due process and a genuine desire to see Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji grow in stature and relevance.He noted that though the deceased was no longer with us physically, but his service to the Institution would remain indelible, particularly his commitment to public good.
Other members took time to pay glowing tributes to the deceased, particularly Mr. Gabriel Adeyemi Awe,Registrar and Secretary to Council; Mr Innocent Godfrey Ogbanje, Mr. Abiola Olutunde Alalade and Mr. Oluyemi Bamidele Adebiyi, all testifying to his sincerity of purpose, doggedness and fearlessness.
This was followed by special prayers offered by a Council member, TPL. Umar Shuaibu, and the Bursar, Mr. Sehinde Ebenezer Olabode, for the repose of the demised soul and for the fortitude of the family he left behind.
The valedictory session was well attended by all Council members, Principal Officers; Deans, Directors, as well as, two relatives of the deceased ( Miss. Bio Iyabi and Miss. Emi James)
Hon. Solomon Baribote was appointed a member of the Governing Council of Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji on 14th June, 2024. He was survived by his wife, children and relatives. May God grant the deceased eternal rest.
This is to bring to the immediate awareness of all Staff and Students of Federal Polytechnic, Ile-Oluji, Ondo State that Management has approved a one-day seminar on kidney failure prevention on Monday, 4th May, 2026 at the 1500-Capacity Multipurpose Auditorium by 9:30 a.m. prompt.
A medical team to be led by Prof. Akinbodewa Akinwumi, from ACE Kidney and Transplant Foundation, Ondo City, will be on ground to conduct the seminar, which is aimed at stemming the persistent rise in the prevalence of kidney failure in Nigeria.
In the light of the above, and in order to ensure a hitch-free exercise, Management has directed ALL Members of the Polytechnic Community to attend the programme punctually and without fail, please.
In the race for Ilaje Constituency II, the choice is becoming clearer by the day. Leadership today demands more than ambition it requires proven capacity, integrity, and a strong connection with the people. Prince Barrister Lawson Akintokun embodies all these qualities and more.
He’s widely accepted across communities, he stands as a unifying figure whose candidacy reflects both the trust of the people and a clear readiness to serve. His track record of consistency, grassroots engagement, and calm, focused leadership sets him apart.
Integrity and qualitative leadership are not built on rumours or hearsay; they are earned through consistency, proven character, and a track record of service. It is demonstrated through actions, not mere words through commitment to the common good, respect for the people, and the courage to stand for what is right even in the face of challenges.
However, with a solid background in law and governance, he brings the competence needed to effectively represent Ilaje Constituency II ready from day one to legislate, advocate, and deliver real results.
He understands the challenges facing the people because he is part of them, and he remains committed to inclusive leadership, development, and progress. This is not just another political ambition it is a movement for credible and purposeful representation.
The time is now. The choice is clear.
Support Prince Barrister Lawson Akintokun tested, trusted, and ready to deliver for Ilaje Constituency II.
The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.
The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.
Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.
He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.
According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.
“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.
“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”
The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.
“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.
“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”
He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.
“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”
Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.
The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.
The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.
The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.
Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.
He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.
According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.
“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.
“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”
The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.
“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.
“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”
He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.
“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”
Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.
The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.
The President of Ondo State All Stars Veterans, Rafiu Yusuf, has assured members of the association that their welfare will be a top priority under his leadership.
The former Sunshine Stars player disclosed that he would work to bring all members onto the same page for the overall development of the association.
Yusuf made this known following he was declared as the President of the Ondo State All Stars Veterans at the State Sports Complex in Akure on Saturday.
He described the association as a significant platform that has been underutilised over the years, adding that his aim is to serve as a strong voice for ex-footballers.
According to him, “I have been looking forward to the opportunity to lead the association for a very long time. I thank God that the opportunity has come at the right time.
“I will set up a committee to reach out to all former players with the aim of bringing them back into the limelight. They are all our members.
“Some of them have not been heard from for a long time; we are going to reach out to them. At the same time, we will continue to appreciate and place non-professional footballers, who are members, on a high pedestal.”
The All Stars President appealed to members to cooperate with his administration for the overall development of the association.
“Our first point of call is to meet with the Ondo State Football Association, which is the highest football body in the state, as well as other stakeholders.
“Our slogan is very clear: ‘Retired but not tired’. After quitting football, we can still serve in other capacities for the development of the game.”
He further urged members of the Ondo State All Stars to support his administration in moving the association forward.
“I commend the immediate past administration for their efforts in advancing the association. I assure our members that this administration will build on their achievements and continue to develop a formidable platform for ex-footballers and other interested parties.”
Announcing the results of the election, Prophet Jimoh Oyedotun, founder of Fruit of Faith Ministry (Wonder Land) and Chairman of the Electoral Committee, declared Rafiu Yusuf the winner, unopposed.
The full list of Ondo State All Stars Veterans executives as announced by the Electoral Committee Chairman includes: President, Rafiu Yusuf; Vice President, Gbenga Ishola Agbaje; General Secretary, Filegbe Oluwafemi Timileyin; Financial Secretary, Fredrick Dayo; Treasurer, Ogbu Kalu; and Team Manager, Omojowo Olaniyi.
The Ondo State Football Club Owners Association has appointed Mr.Oluwafemi Timilehin Filegbe, Chief Executive Officer of FAM Guest House, Akure, as its Patron in recognition of his contributions to football development in the state.
The appointment, announced in a statement signed by the State Chairman, Mr. Banjo Adepoju, acknowledges Timilehine’s role in promoting grassroots football and supporting the growth of club activities across Ondo State.
According to the association, Timilehine has been instrumental in identifying and nurturing young football talents, many of whom have progressed to higher levels of the game. His continued support for football initiatives and club development earned him the recognition.
“The association holds in high regard his immense contributions toward the growth and development of the football sector in Ondo State, particularly in grassroots player development,” the statement read.
Timilehine’s inauguration as Patron is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, April 14, 2026, at the Conference Hall of the Ondo State Sports Complex in Akure. The event is expected to begin promptly at 10:00 a.m., with stakeholders in the football community anticipated to attend.
The association expressed confidence that Timilehine will leverage his new role to further advance its objectives and strengthen football administration within the state.
“We sincerely believe that he will use his good office to help the association attain greater heights,” the statement added.
Timilehine, a prominent figure in Akure’s business community, has gained recognition for his commitment to youth development through sports, particularly football, where his efforts have contributed to expanding opportunities for aspiring players across the state.
Sunshine Stars Chief Scout, Shina Adeoye, has resigned from his position with immediate effect.
Adeoye, a former player of the club, cited pressing personal and professional commitments as the reason for stepping aside from his role as Chief Scouting Officer.
In his resignation letter, he formally notified the club’s management of his decision:
“I write to formally notify the management of my decision to step aside from my position as Chief Scout of Sunshine Stars Football Club, Akure.
“This decision has become necessary in order to attend to some pressing personal and professional commitments relating to my football career, which may not allow me to effectively discharge my duties in this role.
“As a former player and a staunch supporter of the Owena Whales, the club remains very dear to my heart, and I will continue to support its growth and success at all times.
“I also wish to inform the public and the media that, with immediate effect and until further notice, I am stepping aside from my role with the Ondo State Football Agency (ODSFA). Please accept my gratitude for the opportunity to serve.”
Yours sincerely, Shina Adeoye
Former Sunshine Stars Player.”
Adeoye’s departure marks the end of his tenure in the club’s technical setup, where he played a key role in scouting and player development.
The Ondo State Coordinator of Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue), has congratulated the Deputy Governor of the state, Olayide Adelami, on the occasion of his birthday.
Akinrotoye, in a statement signed and made available to newsmen by his media aide, Adeseun Adetayo in Akure, the state capital described Adelami as a seasoned administrator and committed public servant, noting his contributions to governance and development in Ondo State.
He commended the Deputy Governor’s wealth of experience, humility, and loyalty to leadership, emphasizing his role in supporting policies aimed at improving the welfare of citizens.
The immediate past Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Sports also praised Adelami’s dedication to teamwork and stability in government, describing him as a dependable deputy who has continued to strengthen the administration’s agenda.
According to him, “Adelami is a very dependable Deputy whose dedication to good governance in the state is measurable.
His previous role in the National Assembly is a testament to his administrative competence. I celebrate you today and wish you many happy returns of the day in good health.”
The Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has been commended for his role as Grand Patron of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half-Million Walk and other pro-Tinubu support groups in the state.
The Ondo State Coordinator of the Tinubu/Datiwa Half a Million Walk, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (Bonsue), made this known during an interview with journalists in Akure, the state capital.
Akinrotoye, the immediate past Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Sports, expressed delight at the governor’s decision to identify with the Tinubu/Datiwa movement as its Grand Patron.
According to him, as the number one citizen of the state, the governor is naturally positioned to lead and support all groups working towards the second-term bid of President Bola Tinubu in Ondo State.
While appreciating the people of Ondo State for coming out en masse during the just-concluded Half-Million Walk, Akinrotoye disclosed that the Tinubu/Datiwa support structure would be expanded across all 18 local government areas of the state and extended to other South-West states, including Lagos, Oyo, Osun, Ogun, and Ekiti.
He further explained that the Half a Million Walk would be staged across the three senatorial districts and beyond as part of efforts to mobilise grassroots support for the president’s re-election. The initiative, he said, was formally launched in Akure.
Plans are underway to extend the mobilisation to the Southern and Northern senatorial districts, federal constituencies, 203 political wards, and 3,933 polling units, with coordinators to be inaugurated across the state in due course.
Akinrotoye added that the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in the state, led by Governor Aiyedatiwa, has approved the statewide rollout of the walk ahead of the January 2027 general elections.
“We will continue to promote the achievements of President Bola Tinubu through the Tinubu/Datiwa support group to enable us achieve our target of 95 percent of the votes,” he said.
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