By Peter Omopo
Ibadan, September 10, 2025 — The Oyo State Government has approved ₦110 million for the hosting of Nigeria’s U-20 women’s national football team, the Falconets, ahead of their 2026 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup qualifying match against Rwanda.
The return-leg tie is scheduled for Saturday, September 27, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.
The approval was announced on Tuesday after a meeting of the State Executive Council presided over by Acting Governor Bayo Lawal at the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.
Briefing journalists, the Commissioner for Works, Abdulmojeed Mogbojubola, said the funds would cover logistics, accommodation, feeding, security, and other expenses related to the team’s stay in Oyo State.
“The qualifying match between Nigeria and Rwanda is scheduled to take place in Ibadan, bringing national attention to the city and reinforcing its position as a hub for major sporting events,” Mogbojubola stated.
He explained that the state’s support for the Falconets is part of a wider strategy to promote sports development and youth empowerment, in line with Governor Seyi Makinde’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development (2023–2027).
The commissioner added that hosting the Falconets would not only boost the players’ morale but also inspire local athletes to aim for international recognition.
Mogbojubola urged residents of Ibadan and sports enthusiasts across the state to turn out in large numbers to cheer the team, expressing confidence that the Falconets would deliver a strong performance and make the country proud.
