Oyo State Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Miss Wasilat Adegoke, has assured football fans across Nigeria of the state’s readiness to host the upcoming Under-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match between Nigeria and Rwanda.
The Commissioner stated this on behalf of the state government on Monday during a press briefing held at the Press Conference Room of the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.
The eagerly anticipated encounter is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, 2025, at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
Speaking at the press conference, Adegoke said all necessary arrangements had been put in place to ensure a smooth and memorable event for players, match officials, and fans.
“First and foremost, I wish to acknowledge and commend the visionary leadership of our Governor, His Excellency, Engr. Seyi Makinde, whose unwavering commitment to the growth of sports, youth development, and infrastructure renewal has made this moment possible,” she said.
According to the Commissioner, the Governor’s investment in sports facilities, particularly the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, has positioned Oyo State as a leading hub for national and international sporting events.
On security arrangements, Adegoke emphasized that the safety of players, officials, and fans remains a top priority to has been taken care of.
“Oyo State is one of the safest states in the country. This is one of the reasons we have been given the right to host this match and we want to assure everyone that adequate security will be provided before, during, and after the match,” she assured.
In a move to encourage inclusiveness and maximum turnout, the Commissioner announced that no gate fees would be charged for the match declaring that, it is free for all football lovers and fans to come and cheer on the Nigerian Super Falconets.
“This decision reflects the commitment of His Excellency to ensure inclusiveness and to give every football-loving Nigerian, especially our people in Oyo State, the opportunity to be part of this global event without barriers,” she said.
She further called on residents of Oyo State to come out en masse to support the Super Falconets saying: “Let us unite, let us fill the stadium to capacity, and let us cheer the Nigeria Under-20 female team to victory.
“This match is more than 90 minutes of football. It is an opportunity to showcase our pride, our culture, and our identity as a people.”
Adegoke noted that the historic hosting of the qualifier would also serve as a morale booster for the newly inaugurated Pacesetter Queens, Oyo State’s female football club.
“We look forward to welcoming the Super Falconets, the Amavubi of Rwanda, and thousands of fans into our great city for what promises to be a historic and unforgettable occasion,” she added.
The Commissioner also stressed that strong fan turnout would further strengthen Oyo State’s case for hosting more international matches in the future.
The briefing was attended by the Special Assistant to the Governor on Political Matters, Hon. Adeyemo Adedeji; Director of Sports, Mrs. Bisi Adegoke; Director of Administration and Supplies at the Ministry of Youth and Sports, Mrs. Idowu Falade; and Oba James Odeniran, the Alakinyele of Akinyele, who also serves as Chairman of the Oyo State Football Association.