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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 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.
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.
There was widespread jubilation as the Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, confirmed the appointment of Mrs Nene Ogunleye as the substantive General Manager of the Ondo State Development and Property Corporation (OSDPC).
Mrs Ogunleye’s confirmation, after serving for seven months in an acting capacity, makes her the first female General Manager of the corporation.
Ogunleye began her career at the corporation as a corps member in 1999. She was named Best Corps Member during the administration of the late Ondo State Governor, Chief Adebayo Adefarati, an achievement that earned her automatic employment.
Speaking with Newsmen, in Akure the state capital, Mrs. Ogunleye said she would pursue an inclusive style of administration.
“I have always been a team player, right from my days as Director of Finance and Administration. As General Manager, I will strive to achieve even more by bringing out the best in staff and carrying everyone along in the administration of the corporation,” she said.
She expressed gratitude to Governor Aiyedatiwa for considering her worthy of the appointment as the substantive accounting officer of the corporation.
“I also appreciate the number one civil servant in the state, Mr. Bayo Philip, for his role in my appointment. I promise to be even more diligent in the discharge of my duties,” she added.
Ogunleye noted that she rose through the ranks from corps member to General Manager.
“Without sounding immodest, I have served Ondo State wholeheartedly and was honoured as the best corps member, which earned me automatic employment,” she said.
She thanked both junior and senior management staff for their support, noting the excitement surrounding her elevation from Director of Finance and Administration to General Manager.
“I urge all staff to demonstrate greater commitment and diligence in their respective departments for the development of the corporation,” she added.
Speaking on behalf of the staff, the Head of Planning, Research and Statistics, Mr Seun Komolafe, described her confirmation as historic, being the first female appointment to the position.
He said her appointment was a case of a round peg in a round hole.
“I thank the Ondo State Government and the Head of Service, Mr Bayo Philip, for appointing an experienced administrator as the substantive General Manager of the corporation. “We are delighted to see her rise to this position.
She understands the intricacies of the corporation’s operations, and we are optimistic that she will exceed expectations.
“We monitored her performance during her tenure as Acting General Manager, and she carried everyone along in the administration of the corporation.
Her experience will, in no small measure, help take the corporation to the next level,” he said.
In a bid to advance sports development through technology, the Senior Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye (popularly known as Bonsue), on Tuesday paid a courtesy visit to the Chairman of the Ondo State Information Technology Agency (SITA), Hon. Tomide Akinribido.
The meeting between the two indigenes of Ekimogun focused on the growing impact of technology on the sports sector, particularly the role of innovations such as the Video Assistant Referee (VAR), which has become a major decision-making tool in football and other sports.
Hon. Akinrotoye, a former Coordinator of the Rising Stars and now SSA on Sports to the Ondo State Governor, urged the SITA Chairman to leverage his ICT expertise to support the growth and development of sports in the state.
According to him, Information and Communication Technology (ICT) has become central to global development, noting that no sector can thrive without embracing technology.
“ICT has taken over virtually all sectors worldwide. On this note, we are seeking your support in advancing and developing sports in Ondo State,” he said.
Responding, the Chairman of SITA and former member of the Ondo State House of Assembly representing Ondo West Constituency I, Hon. Tomide Akinribido, commended Hon. Akinrotoye for the visit.
He stated that his appointment by the Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, was aimed at contributing meaningfully to the development of the state across all sectors.
“My office is ready to partner with the sports sector in the overall interest of Ondo State,” Akinribido said.
He further assured that SITA would collaborate with the office of the SSA on Sports to restore the lost glory of sports in the state through the effective deployment of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
E- Signed
Hon kinrotoye Kehinde Bonsue SSA To Ondo state Governor On sports 20th January 2026
The Ondo State Football Association Chairman, Otunba Dele Ajayi, has hailed the launch of the Club Owners Association in the state as a groundbreaking and timely step for football development.
Ajayi, represented by board member Chief Ibukun Aladetoyinbo, spoke during the inauguration of the association’s state executives, local government coordinators, Board of Trustees, patron, and the unveiling of its official logo.
He emphasized that the Club Owners Association plays a vital role in football growth at all levels, noting that government alone cannot shoulder the responsibility of developing the sport.
According to him, “Club Owners Association is a very important integral part of football. We recognise them at the local government, state, and national levels. Government cannot do it alone, so we need both private organisations and individuals to join hands with government to develop the round leather game.”
Ajayi commended stakeholders for establishing the body in Ondo State and assured them of the FA’s full cooperation.
State Chairman of the Club Owners Association, Banjo Adepoju, stated that the association was formed to make meaningful contributions to football advancement in the state. He added that a four-year strategic growth plan has already been designed.
He further praised the merit-based selection of local government coordinators, expressing confidence that they would accelerate grassroots football development.
Board of Trustees includes;FIFA-licensed agent and Moyero FC proprietor, Lanre Moyero, was inaugurated as Chairman of the Board of Trustees, with Otunba Dele Ologbese as Vice Chairman. Other members include Barrister Olusola Oke, Chief Albert Akintoye, Elvis Ogebe, Prince Odomode Adeyemi (Lacrown), FIFA-licensed agent Prince Yemi Olagbegi, Mrs. Kikelomo Adepona, Michael Karimu, and Banjo Adepoju (Secretary). Patrons include Otunba Dele Ajayi, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adu, and Chairman of the Ondo State Football Agency, Divine Ogbonaya.
State Executive Officers are; Chairman: Adepoju Banjo (CEO, Benfad FC, Akure), Vice Chairman 1: Alhaji Oladosu Muyideen (President, Opeyemi FC, Odigbo), Vice Chairman 2: Oladipupo Temitayo (Chairman, Emalex FC, Owo), General Secretary: Omoogun Dotun Andrew (Ologbese Football Academy, Akoko Southwest), Assistant Secretary: Blessing Perez (President/Technical Director, Royal Goldwin, Ifedore), Financial Secretary: Akungbe Emmanuel (Apoi National FC, Ese-Odo), Treasurer: Jephthah Akinboboye (FC Unity, Ondo City), PRO: Musa Kehinde (President, Brave Eagles FC, Akure North), Welfare Officer: Gbenga Adeusi (Abex Abex FC, Akoko Northwest), Chief Whip: Mathew Okoh (President, Ebile FC, Akure South),Research/Organising Officer: Sedara Phillip (Embavic Football Academy, Okitipupa)
Speaking at the event, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adu encouraged the executives to create a sustainable structure capable of attracting investors, expressing optimism that the association will gain recognition beyond the state.
BOT Chairman, Lanre Moyero, described the formation of the association as historic, promising support particularly in player scouting and talent discovery.
The unveiling ceremony witnessed the presence of nearly all football club owners in the state, including representatives from Benfad FA, FJ Academy, Royal Godwin, Ijapo Ages Stars, Saint FC, Emalex FC Owo, Optimum Football Academy, Ologbese Football Academy, Weli Weli FC, Lacrown FC, Akure United, SOT FC, Idanre United, and many others.
As the 3rd edition of the Adu Unity Football Competition continues to gather momentum, eight teams have secured their spots in the quarter-finals of the tournament.
The qualified teams are Ijapo Ages Stars FC, United Army, Celecal FC, Velocity FC, Akure United, Idanre United, Olukayode FC, and Signature FC.
Ijapo Ages Stars and Celecal FC topped Groups A and B respectively with 13 points each, winning four matches and drawing one. Akure United and Olukayode FC led Groups C and D with 10 points apiece, after winning three games and drawing one.
The runners-up in each group were United Army (10 points), Velocity FC (8 points), Idanre United (7 points), and Signature FC (9 points).
The quarter-final matches are scheduled to kick off today at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, and are expected to showcase skill, passion, and football artistry to the delight of fans of the round leather game.
A total of twenty-three football clubs, drawn from the 18 local government areas of Ondo State, participated in the competition, which has now reached its knockout stage with eight teams battling for a semi-final berth.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Mr. Raymond Abdulsalam, commended all participating teams for their cooperation and sportsmanship, noting that the success recorded so far would not have been possible without their understanding.
Abdulsalam highlighted the significance of the competition, stating that its purpose is to discover budding football talents across the state and to contribute meaningfully to the development of sports in Ondo State.
He further noted that sports remain a powerful tool for youth engagement, unity, and crime prevention, adding that the LOC has identified several outstanding players who will be presented to the competition’s sponsor, Dr. Olumuyiwa Adu, in collaboration with scouting partners for further training and exposure.
“This ongoing 3rd edition of the Adu Unity Football Competition has once again confirmed that Ondo State is richly blessed with football talents,” Abdulsalam said. “We will continue to work with stakeholders to nurture these budding talents into future stars.”
The third edition of the Adu Unity Football Competition kicked off in Akure with an exciting opening match between defending champions, Ijapo Ages Stars, and United Army, which ended in a 1–1 draw at the Ondo State Sports Complex.Akure housing agents
The first half of the keenly contested encounter ended goalless before Eric Greg sent the crowd into jubilation in the 53rd minute, scoring the first goal of the tournament. His well-placed shot to the far left corner put Ijapo Ages Stars FC ahead.
Both sides displayed impressive football artistry, thrilling spectators with skillful plays and tactical discipline.
United Army, however, fought back through Segun Oni, who capitalised on a defensive error from the champions to level the score at 1–1, a result that stood till the final whistle.
In the second game of the day, Alagbaka FC secured victory over Kings City, with Rotimi Ayomide and Pius Chikodi scoring a goal each in the first half. Alagbaka had earlier missed a penalty after one of their players was fouled inside the box.
Speaking after the match, Michael Karimu, Technical Director of Ijapo Ages Stars FC, praised his team’s performance and resilience.
“Every team wants to defeat a champion. It was a good fight from both sides; we played our hearts out, but it ended in a draw. We’ll remain focused, restrategise for the next games, and avoid complacency,” Karimu said.
He also commended the competition’s sponsor, Hon. Olumuyiwa Adu, for his consistency in supporting grassroots football development in Ondo State.
United Army’s coach, Okelola Olusegun lauded his players’ fighting spirit.
“Even when we were a goal down, the players didn’t give up. It was an entertaining game from both teams,” he said.
The Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Raymond Abdulsalam, applauded all four teams that featured on match day one for their maturity and sportsmanship.
“This competition shows that there’s an abundance of football talents in Ondo State. We’ll do our best to ensure outstanding players are exposed to bigger opportunities,” he noted.
A total of 23 teams from the 18 local government areas of Ondo State are vying for the tournament’s top prizes of ₦1,000,000, ₦500,000, ₦300,000 respectively.
The third edition of the Adu Unity Football Competition will officially kick off on Saturday, with defending champions Ijapo Ages Stars set to face United Army in the opening match at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure.
A total of 23 teams from 18 local government areas across the state have registered for this year’s tournament, which promises excitement and talent discovery. Ijapo Ages Stars are the reigning champions, having won the first two editions consecutively.
Addressing the participating teams, Chairman of the Local Organising Committee (LOC), Raymond Abdulsalam, reaffirmed his committee’s commitment to ensuring a fair and transparent competition.
“The competition will be played at the Ondo State Sports Complex, Akure, and the Ijapo Housing Field. Any act of thuggery or indiscipline will not be tolerated. I urge all teams to exhibit maturity and good sportsmanship,” he said.
Abdulsalam added that the winners will receive ₦1 million, runners-up ₦500,000, third-place ₦200,000, and fourth-place ₦100,000.
The competition’s sponsor, Hon. Olumuyiwa Adu, represented by Hon. Layo Falohun, Rev. (Hon.) Tayo Abisola, and Hon. Abiodun Aladanla, commended both the organisers and participating teams for their cooperation during the draws.
“With the level of organisation and mutual understanding witnessed today, we are confident the competition will be successful,” they said.
Secretary of the Ondo State Football Association (FA), Femi Adeleye, encouraged teams to adhere to the rules and maintain discipline.
“Play according to the rules and show good sportsmanship. The goal is to discover new talents who can represent the state and the country in the future,” he urged.
Also speaking, Representative of the Ondo State Referees Council, Tolulope Akinfemisoye, advised coaches to acquaint themselves with the laws of the game to avoid unnecessary conflicts.
“Coaches must understand the rules thoroughly to prevent misleading or inciting their players against referees’ decisions,” he cautioned.
Participating teams pledged their cooperation with the organisers, while urging the LOC to uphold fairness and transparency throughout the tournament.
Special Assistant to the Ondo State Governor on Sports, Hon. Kehinde Akinrotoye, has assured the management of the state Sports Council that the old glory of sports in Ondo State will be restored.
He explained that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa cannot be everywhere to know what is happening in all sectors of the state, which is why he was appointed as the SSA on Sports.
He added that it is important to have someone who will be giving the Governor on-the-spot reports of events, especially in the Sports Council.
The former Coordinator of Rising Stars stated this at a meeting held with the management and sectional heads of the council in Akure, the state capital.
He urged the sectional heads to put their challenges in writing, promising to liaise with other stakeholders to brief the Governor.
“Our Governor is a sports-loving leader, and I am very sure that when I bring your requests to him, he will attend to them positively. We need someone who will be presenting your matters to the Governor, because it is not possible for him to be everywhere.
” I can assure you that sports in our state will improve under the current administration,” he said.
“We need action more than talk, and I will do all I can, in conjunction with other stakeholders, to discuss with Mr Governor the need to host our medalists from national events,” he added.
Responding, the General Manager of the Sports Council, Mr. Sunday Fagite, thanked the SSA for deeming it fit to visit the council.
He added that the SSA is a sports enthusiast who understands the language of the sector, and urged him to assist the council in presenting their issues to the Governor.
Sectional heads at the meeting promised to work harder for the development of sports in the state.
“They assured the SSA of their maximum support and said their requests would be submitted as directed.
They informed the SSA that the council needs more coaches to replace those who have retired and requested that the honorary coaches in the council be absorbed into the system.
“Apart from our requests, government needs to do something about athletes’ remuneration.
“Many of our athletes have been poached by other states because of unattractive welfare packages,” they noted.
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