Better days are ahead for the management, players and supporters of Oyo State-owned Shootings Stars Sports Club and Crown Football Club of Ogbomoso following the promise of a lifeline by Governor Abiola Ajimobi.
The governor made the promise during a visit to the Lekan Salami stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan, training ground of 3SC, popularly called the Oluyole Warriors, on Friday.
He hinted that the state government would restructure the clubs, while it would also finance and revamp its facilities to raise the enthusiasm of the players and supporters in them.
The governor used the occasion to apologise to the clubs for the seeming lack of adequate attention from the state government, which he blamed on the poor financial status of the state.
Ajimobi commended the coaching crew and players of the team for posting impressive performance in recent times, which he described as encouraging and worthy of renewed support by the government and sports lovers.
Urging the teams to guard against complacency, Ajimobi promised to make up for the lost ground by giving full attention to the welfare of the clubs.
Ajimobi said, “They have done very well and we are encouraged by their exemplary performance. I decided to visit 3SC to boost their morale and to promise them moral, physical and financial support.
“I seek to apologise for not doing this for long, but I am happy you all know where the state stands on the issue of finance. I am more than happy to inform you that we are getting out of that situation.
“We all know the importance of sports in developing the moral, mental and physical fitness of our youths and an avenue to re-direct their interest from social vices and make them useful to the society.
“Government will restructure the clubs, finance and revamp their facilities to heighten the enthusiasm of players, supporters and management bodies.”
The governor promised the players and fans of the 3SC that he will to watch their next match against Sunshine Stars of Akure on Sunday.
The General Manager of 3SC, Mr. Rasheed Balogun and the team’s coach, Mr. Gbenga Ogunbote, expressed delight at the presence of the governor at the training ground.
