Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has approved the long-overdue allocation of land to members of the victorious 1998 Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) team, fulfilling a promise made 26 years ago.
The 1998 3SC squad achieved historic success by winning both the Nigeria Premier League and the WAFU Cup, the club’s only continental title to date. In recognition of this achievement, the then Military Administrator of Oyo State, Compol Amen Oyakhire, pledged a reward of ₦1 million and a plot of land to each player and official. Unfortunately, successive administrations failed to honor this pledge—until now.
According to a statement signed by Akin Maxwell Makinde, Secretary of 3SC from 1997 to 1999, Governor Makinde’s administration undertook a review of the matter, investigated the delay, and ultimately approved the long-promised land allocations. This move has been widely praised as a correction of a long-standing injustice.
The players, officials, and club management, under the late Chairman Bode Oyewole, expressed heartfelt gratitude to Governor Makinde for his commitment to justice, merit, and service. They acknowledged his dedication to honouring those who brought glory to Oyo State and Nigeria.
A total of 25 beneficiaries were listed and now await the formal issuance of their Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) from the Ministry of Lands and Urban Development.
Governor Makinde’s action has not only brought closure to a long-standing issue but also reaffirmed his administration’s values of fairness, accountability, and recognition of service.
This gesture underscores Governor Makinde’s belief in rewarding excellence, dedication, and service to the state, and further cements his administration’s legacy of fairness and integrity.
The SSA assured them of continued support, promising to mobilize resources and partnerships that would help Khadijat achieve her Grand Slam dream.
As she departed the meeting, Khadijat stood not just as a tennis player, but as a symbol of hope, excellence, and the limitless potential of Nigeria’s youth when given the right support.