Governor Makinde Backs Ibadan For Super Eagles’ Home Games, Rewards Falconets’ Brilliance

Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has urged the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) to schedule the Super Eagles’ international fixtures in Ibadan, stressing that such a move would further enhance his administration’s drive to develop the state’s sports economy.

Makinde made the appeal on Saturday while declaring open the 2025 Annual General Assembly of the NFF, hosted in Ibadan. He described football as a unifying force in Nigeria and reaffirmed that Oyo State has the capacity to host high-profile sporting events, with facilities in the state capital meeting international standards.

“Oyo State, particularly Ibadan, is ready to host top-tier events, including Super Eagles matches. We have the facilities, and I pledge full government support to make it successful,” the governor stated.

He also commended the leadership of the NFF and the Nigeria Premier Football League (NPFL) for reforms in the domestic game, especially efforts to improve officiating and strengthen league organisation.

In a separate development, Governor Makinde celebrated the Falconets following their emphatic 4-0 win over Rwanda in the second leg of the 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifiers, played in Ibadan.

The governor announced a $15,000 cash reward for the team and praised both players and coaching staff for their outstanding performance. Precious Oscar, Tumininu Adeshina, Janet Akekoromowei, and Alaba Olabiyi were all on target as Nigeria secured a 5-0 aggregate victory.

With the result, the Falconets advanced to the final qualifying round, where they are set to face Senegal in February 2026. The Senegalese side sealed their spot after defeating Algeria 2-0 on aggregate.