The Oyo State Government’s sustained investment in sports development has continued to yield remarkable results as Pacesetter Queens Football Club returned home with two major trophies, a feat that underscores the state’s growing dominance in grassroots and women’s football.

In a colourful reception held at the Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, the Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, received the management of Pacesetter Queens FC following the club’s impressive victories in the Oyo State Challenge Cup and the Ibadan Football Association (IFA) League.

The trophies, formally presented to the Oyo State Government, symbolise not only the club’s success but also the impact of Governor Seyi Makinde’s unwavering commitment to sports development, youth empowerment and talent discovery across the state.

Welcoming the victorious team, Hon. Wasilat Adegoke, represented by the Permanent Secretary Oyo State Ministry of Youth and Sports, Dr. Sunday Akinwale Moradeyo described the achievements as a testament to what can be accomplished when government support is matched with dedication, discipline and determination. She noted that the administration of Governor Seyi Makinde has consistently prioritised sports as a vehicle for youth development, social inclusion and economic opportunities, adding that the latest triumph by Pacesetter Queens further validates the government’s vision.

“You have demonstrated that champions are made through discipline, teamwork and perseverance. Do not relent because this is only the beginning of greater accomplishments,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the club, the Team Manager, Prince Babatunde Adegorowa, expressed profound appreciation to Governor Seyi Makinde for his visionary leadership and unwavering support for sports development in Oyo State.

He disclosed that the club emerged champions of the Oyo State Challenge Cup and the Ibadan Football Association (IFA) League, describing the victories as products of the enabling environment created by the present administration.

Prince Adegorowa assured the government that the club would remain committed to sustaining its winning culture and bringing more laurels to Oyo State.

The celebration was more than a ceremonial presentation of trophies; it was a reflection of a government whose deliberate investment in sports is producing champions, inspiring young talents and projecting Oyo State as a force to reckon with in Nigerian football. As the trophies were handed over amid applause and admiration, they stood as shining symbols of a vision that continues to transform sporting dreams into lasting achievements.

E-signed:

Prince Dotun Oyelade,
Commissioner for Information,
Oyo State.

Michelle Ibidapo, a 13-year-old swimmer and student of The Grange School, Ikeja, has won Silver in the 1,500m women’s freestyle at the Ogun 2024 National Sports Festival, representing Team Oyo.

Previously discovered at the National Youth Games (NYG) in Asaba, Michelle has progressed rapidly through the national sports system to now stand on the podium at Nigeria’s biggest multi-sport event.

Speaking with Sports247 after her victory, she reflected on her preparation and mindset: “Coming into this competition, I was focused.

I had my mind on winning a medal, even though I wasn’t sure what color. During the last lap, I reminded myself to stay focused, and by the end, it turned into gold.”

Her performance in Shagamu highlights the success of the Youth Games in talent discovery, as well as the growing opportunities for young athletes like Michelle to develop and compete at higher levels.

“What I’ve achieved today is just a start. My dream is to represent Nigeria at the Olympics one day, and I believe that with hard work, gold is possible there too,” she said.

Michelle’s rise is a signal to national sports authorities about the value of structured talent development. From her discovery in Asaba to her silver in Ogun, she’s a reminder that early support, good training, and steady motivation can build tomorrow’s champions.

Honourable Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Wasilat Adegoke, bid a fond farewell to Oyo State’s talented athletes as they departed for the 2024 National Youth Games in Asaba, Delta State.

In her address, Commissioner Adegoke expressed her well-wishes, saying, “I wish you all the best as you represent Oyo State. The State Government, under Governor Seyi Makinde’s leadership, is fully behind you. Showcase your training, dedication, and passion in every competition.

The Commissioner emphasized the State Government’s full support for the athletes’ endeavors, urging them to excel in every competition and make Oyo State proud.

A total of 250 athletes and 58 officials from Oyo State will participate in the games, competing in 28 sports, including ball games. The 8th edition of the National Youth Games, organized by the Federal Ministry of Sports, will feature under-15 athletes from 36 States and the Federal Capital Territory.

Commissioner Adegoke admonished the athletes to exhibit good behavior and secure gold in all events. She commended Team Oyo for clinching first position in five team sports at the Zonal Elimination for ball games held in Osogbo recently.

With the State Government’s full support and the athletes’ determination, Team Oyo is poised to make a significant impact at the National Youth Games.

Make us proud, Team Oyo!
We believe in you and are cheering you on every step of the way.

Bring home those medals!