A member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, has congratulated Shooting Stars Sports Club of Ibadan following the club’s historic qualification for the CAF Confederation Cup after ending a 27-year wait for continental football.
Olajide, who represents Ibadan North-west/Ibadan South-west federal constituency of Oyo state in the lower chamber of the national assembly, described the achievement as a major breakthrough not only for the club but also for football development in Oyo state and Nigeria at large.
The federal lawmaker stated this in a statement made available to journalists through his Special Adviser, Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha.
Shooting Stars Sports club had secured qualification for next season’s CAF confederation cup after finishing third on the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) table with 60 points despite a narrow 1-0 defeat to Niger Tornadoes F.C. in their final league fixture in Minna.
The qualification marks the club’s first return to continental football since 1999, ending nearly three decades of absence from African club competitions.
Hon. Adedeji Olajide Odidiomo commended the players, technical crew, management and supporters of the Oluyole warriors for their dedication, discipline and consistency throughout the season.
According to him, the achievement represents the restoration of a proud football heritage grounded in the history and identity of Ibadan and Oyo state.
“This qualification is a moment of pride for the people of Oyo state and football lovers across Nigeria. Shooting Stars remain one of the most historic football institutions in the country and this return to continental football is well deserved,” he stated.
The lawmaker further noted that the club’s resurgence would inspire young footballers and further strengthen sports development and youth engagement within the state.
Olajide also commended the Oyo state government for its sustained support towards sports development, noting that investment in sports infrastructure, player welfare and institutional support continues to yield positive results.
He expressed optimism that Shooting Stars possess the experience, structure and competitive spirit required to represent Nigeria creditably on the continental stage.
The federal lawmaker equally urged residents of the state and supporters of the club to continue to rally behind the team as preparations begin for the CAF confederation cup campaign next season.
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