By Ubong Usoro Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has delivered on a long-forgotten promise by granting land to members of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) squad that clinched national and continental titles in 1998. The gesture, which honours a commitment made nearly three decades ago, was announced over the weekend, marking a moment …
Makinde Fulfils 26-Year-old Land Promise to 3SC’s 1998 Squad
By Ubong Usoro
Oyo State Governor, Engr. Seyi Makinde, has delivered on a long-forgotten promise by granting land to members of the Shooting Stars Sports Club (3SC) squad that clinched national and continental titles in 1998.
The gesture, which honours a commitment made nearly three decades ago, was announced over the weekend, marking a moment of redemption and recognition for one of Nigeria’s most iconic football teams.
1998: A Historic Season for Shooting Stars
Back in 1998, the 3SC side achieved a historic double, winning the Nigerian Premier League and the West African Football Union (WAFU) Cup, the latter still standing as the country’s only continental club title.
In response, the then military administrator of Oyo State, Amen Oyakhire, pledged ₦1 million and a plot of land to each team member and official.
While the financial reward was paid at the time, the land portion of the promise was never fulfilled.
All that has now changed, as Governor Makinde recently took steps to correct the oversight.
Following an internal review of the matter, the governor approved the allocation of land to the players and officials, both living and deceased.
He said, “This administration is committed to righting past wrongs. It is important to celebrate those who brought honour to Oyo State and the nation through their hard work and commitment.”
Full List of Beneficiaries
The 1998 team was led by the late Chairman Bode Oyewole and included key figures such as Captain Sunday Adu, Andrew Aihkomogbe, Shanka Ugwah, and Eric Ejiofor. In total, 25 individuals will benefit from the land allocation, including some posthumously.
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Others on the list include Dimeji Adenekan (late), Niyi Elegbede, Samuel Yamta, John Benson, Leye Akinde, Mojeed Azees (late), Pius Daniel (late), Rafiu Salaudeen, Bauldwin Bazuaye, Golden Ajeboh, Sunday Ilevbare, Allain Njoh Njoh, Peter Obanor, Ochuko Otos, Shobayo Adesina, Kazeem Tijani, Kola Ademola, Friday Christopher, the late Coach Jossy Ladipo, and Barr. Owolabi Salami.
Government Agencies Mobilised
The Ministry of Lands and Urban Development has been tasked with handling the allocation process and issuing Certificates of Occupancy (C of O) to the beneficiaries.
The move has been widely praised as a significant act of justice and appreciation. Members of the 1998 squad expressed their heartfelt thanks to the governor for finally bringing closure to the decades-old promise.
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