Oyo Government Approves N110m to Host Falconets’ World Cup Qualifier

The Oyo State Government has approved 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 decisive return-leg fixture will be played on Saturday, September 27, at the Lekan Salami Stadium, Adamasingba, Ibadan.

The approval was confirmed on Tuesday after the State Executive Council meeting presided over by Acting Governor Bayo Lawal at the Governor’s Office, Agodi Secretariat, Ibadan.

Speaking to journalists after the meeting, the Commissioner for Works, Abdulmojeed Mogbojubola, disclosed that the council approved N110 million to cover logistics, accommodation, feeding, security, and other related expenses during the Falconets’ stay in the state.

“A total sum of N110 million has been approved to cover logistics, accommodation, feeding, security, and other related expenses during the team’s stay in the state,” Mogbojubola said.

He explained that hosting the national team would place Ibadan in the spotlight, further reinforcing its reputation as a hub for major sporting events.

Mogbojubola also noted that the initiative was part of Governor Seyi Makinde’s Roadmap for Sustainable Development (2023–2027), which prioritizes investments in youth-focused and sports-related programmes.

“Hosting the Falconets not only boosts morale but also inspires local athletes and young football talents across Oyo State to pursue excellence at international standards,” he added.

The commissioner expressed optimism that the Falconets would make the country proud and urged residents of Ibadan and sports enthusiasts across the state to troop out in large numbers to support the team during their stay and on match day.