 of Ibadan, Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, has begun laying the foundation for){kind=link}
The newly appointed Chairman of Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) of Ibadan, Hon. Taiwo Lekan Salami, has begun laying the foundation for a new era at the club, with a strong focus on securing sponsorships and building lasting infrastructure to restore the club’s lost glory.
Salami, who addressed players and officials of the Oluyole Warriors on Sunday in Ibadan, ahead of their departure for the 2025 Eko International Cup in Lagos, outlined an ambitious roadmap for the club’s transformation.
Permanent Site and World-Class Facilities in the Works
At the heart of his vision is the construction of a permanent site for the club—a project he aims to complete before the end of his tenure. The facility, he said, would include a standard players’ hostel, training pitches, gymnasium, lounge, restaurant, and coaches’ quarters—offering a professional environment to drive player development and team cohesion.
“We will build a permanent site for Shooting Stars before the end of this administration,” Salami declared.
“There will be hostels, training pitches, a gym, lounge, restaurant, and other necessary amenities. No more scattered living arrangements—everyone will be together. That ends under my watch.”
Salami added that he has already initiated discussions with Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, requesting land to execute the project.
Sponsorship Drive in Motion
In addition to infrastructure, Salami revealed his ongoing efforts to attract corporate sponsorships to ease the financial burden on the club and enhance its operations.
“I’ve spoken to the governor to allocate land for the project. If the government can’t build it, no problem—just give us the land,” he said.
“I’ve been engaging potential sponsors. That’s why I haven’t been around much. We’re offering sponsorship rights on jerseys, pitch panels, and buses. These discussions are progressing.”
Players Urged to Deliver on the Pitch
While unveiling his plans, the 3SC boss emphasized that the success of his administration depends significantly on the players’ performance on the pitch.
“To whom much is given, much is expected. I’m making moves behind the scenes, and you need to match that with good results. That’s how you can support this vision and bring it to life,” he charged the squad.
Players Respond with Pledge of Commitment
Responding on behalf of the players, left-back Ikouwem Utin thanked the Chairman for his efforts and pledged the team’s commitment to reciprocate his good intentions with strong performances.
“We truly appreciate the Chairman for his concern and commitment to our welfare,” said Utin.
“We will do our best to ensure his dreams become reality by delivering the results he expects.”
The Bigger Picture
Shooting Stars, a club steeped in history as one of Nigeria’s most iconic football institutions, have endured turbulent times in recent years. With Salami’s vision of professionalization, better infrastructure, and strategic partnerships, fans and stakeholders may now have renewed hope for a return to the club’s golden era.